ACCORDION CRIMES

An Italian accordion-maker brings his instrument and his son to America in the late nineteenth century. His American journey is short-lived, but the accordion sees the country and affects the lives of the people who play it, burn it or keep it on a shelf. The book and its many characters are beautifully brought to life through the author's words and Anna Fields's authoritative, edgy narration. Fields constantly reminds us that the characters don't lead easy lives by conveying their frustrations, hopes and disappointments with master storytelling skill. Her reedy voice is not soothing, and that works with Proulx's pinpoint prose, making this book a thoroughly absorbing experience. R.I.G. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT 97]