THE TRUE MEMOIRS OF LITTLE K

Adrienne Sharp writes a captivating portrait of pre- and post-revolutionary Russia while delving deeply into the world of the czar's Russian Imperial Ballet in St. Petersburg. Narrator Rachel Botchan smoothly articulates names and ballet terms in both French and Russian as she narrates the story of real-life ballerina Mathilde Kschessinska, who looks back as a 99-year-old to her childhood and ensuing years. The character of the petite, feminine "Little K" is prettily depicted by Botchan in a light, youthful voice and is even believable in her reminiscences as a nonagenarian. Historical facts on the lush opulence of pre-revolutionary Russia and its tumultuous downfall are enhanced by Sharp's imaginings. The dancers' physical rigor and discipline are detailed as are the era's ambiance and sensibilities, forbidden and proper love, and royal conquests and heartbreak. A.W. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2011]