BENEATH THE SKY

Paul Block's ambitious story moves from Victorian England to British trading outposts in China, focusing on the devastating effect of the opium trade on Chinese culture. Reader Geoffrey Howard presents this work in an easy-to-follow manner and never tries to force vocal characterizations. Listeners won't miss male/female intonations because Howard's comfortable cadence produces positive results. But the editors have totally disregarded the need to leave space between scenes so listeners can adapt to changes in the story line. Despite the occasional insertion of unneeded historical background and an unbelievably predictable ending, this is a good effort made better by Howard's presentation. T.J.M. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 97]