HOME FIRES

An island setting provides a mix of characters and contrasts for Rice's contemporary story of families. Dialogue among teenagers offers a particular challenge which Kate Burton handles very well. Burton uses distinct New York and Boston accents to set apart characters, providing vocal coloration. Her vocal portraits make up for character development abridged from the text. Her narrative voice is smooth while reserving an edginess for the sharp-tongued conversations. R.F.W. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT 95]