SILVER WATTLE

Adela and Klara have a serene life in post-WWI Prague until the suspicious death of their mother makes them fear their stepfather. They emigrate to Australia to live with their uncle and soon are caught up in the booming local movie industry, Klara's piano career, and affairs of the heart. The story is told from Adela's point of view. Through Caroline Lee's skillful narration we hear Adela's progress from sheltered teenager to love-struck young adult to competent film director. The international array of characters gives Lee an opportunity to display facility with accents; only the American film distributor seems overdone. Lee brings out the cinematic quality of the script, dramatic plot turns, and enthusiasm for the emerging continent, making this an ideal candidate for audio. J.B.G. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2008]