MOBY DICK

In this superb abridgment, the richness of Melville's prose pours out like thick cream from an iron pitcher. Haunting phrases and word-painted, wild scenes are mixed with selections of classical music, mostly somber, selected by a skilled producer. Bill Bailey, a British actor, sounds as American as the whaling men he describes, a low, intense presence with distinct differentiation of the characters. His Captain Ahab is memorable, calling to mind Gregory Peck's movie portrayal. I miss the end-of-side announcements found on most audiobooks but count this as one of the best titles I've reviewed. D.W. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPT 96]