P.T. BARNUM

This biography traces the multi-faceted life of impresario Barnum while undertaking the mammoth task of separating fact from myth--no easy task, considering that much of the fabricated legend originated from the showman himself. Michael Prichard's reading is clear and energetic. His pace is varied throughout, and he accelerates and slows with the requirements of the text. Prichard wisely makes the choice to let the narrative of the text shine by not characterizating the many unusual personages Barnum encounters. To be sure, the performance enhances the text, yet it is the flowing nature of Saxon's writing and the fascinating life of his subject that command un-divided attention. S.L.D. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR 93]