ILIAD

The classic epics were the original audiobooks, and the power of the ILIAD, undiminished over the centuries, comes over best in a spoken reading. Anthony Heald brings vigor and freshness to this rendition, and the pacing and clarity of his articulation are excellent, both in conveying the poetic quality of the lines and in maintaining the narrative flow of the storytelling. His narrative line is simple, direct, and tense, and this fine production makes clear why the ILIAD stands up beside any narrative of war and men in arms, ancient or modern. Invigorating in both content and meter, this is an excellent title for extended activity—walking, driving, doing yard work. D.A.W. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2010]