DEAR HUSBAND

The stories of Joyce Carol Oates plumb the cracks and crevices of the American psyche with a shining scalpel. This audiobook, read by three talented and empathetic narrators, mirrors the emotionally wrenching tales of unthinkable violence that permeate Oates's universe. Two stories, written as letters, are most affecting. First, "Dear Joyce Carol Oates" spotlights narrator Arthur Morey as he lets frustration and anger rise in his voice as a "fan" of the author reacts to her inattention to his queries. And finally, "Dear Husband" is read by Renée Raudman, who affects a flat tone in her voice as a wife—reminiscent of Andrea Yates—tries to explain how it's not her mate's fault that she's decided to murder their children. R.O. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2009]