ORDEAL BY HUNGER

The Donner Party went west in 1846, relying on a shyster’s faulty map. When they were trapped by early snow in the Sierra Nevadas, they turned to cannibalism to stay alive. Expertly read by Jeff Riggenbach, the tale retains its freshness and power 150 years later. Riggenbach reads the stark story with authority, clarity and richness. The production values are good; only an occasional, minor sound error can be heard.The book is easy to follow and, given its length, is surprisingly engaging. R.I.G. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 97]