THE UNBEARABLE LIGHTNESS OF SCONES

Robert Ian Mackenzie has a secret smile in his voice as he takes listeners back to 44 Scotland Street for the fifth time. He knows these characters well, and his affection for them shines through his impeccable narration. Newlyweds Matthew and Elspeth deal with the uncertainties of matrimony, lonely Domenica becomes obsessed with an allegedly purloined teacup, narcissistic Bruce is too full of himself to notice his fiancée's preoccupation, and precocious Bertie thwarts his oppressive mother and discovers an ally in his father. Alexander McCall Smith has a gentle touch as he arranges ordinary, occasionally hilarious, challenges for his assortment of unpredictable flesh-and-blood characters. Listeners will be especially rewarded if they begin at the beginning of this delicious series, all of which is expertly performed by Mackenzie. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2010]