LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE

It’s clear that narrator Arizmendi, who played daughter Rosaura in the film, has an affinity for Esquivel’s work. She offers a lively reading of this story of thwarted love in turn-of-the-century Mexico. Arizmendi’s rich accent and dramatic flair enhance the tale of Tita, who, by tradition, must forsake true love. She retreats to the kitchen where she channels her intense loss into cooking. The female characterizations are vibrant, and the descriptions of Tita’s culinary creations are mouth-watering. The male voices lack inspiration, however. The story retains its continuity in a strong abridgment though occasional music disrupts rather than contributes to the setting. H.B.K. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG 94]