ALL THINGS SHINING Reading the Western Classics to Find Meaning in a Secular World

Dreyfus and Kelly present an intriguing argument, based in Western literary and philosophical classics, for avoiding nihilism and being engaged with, and finding meaning in, the world as it is. David Drummond narrates at a slightly elevated pitch of excitement, as if urging someone to hurry. Despite the potential urgency of the book’s message, its tone is thoughtful and analytical. The uneasy fit makes Drummond’s manner seem all the more artificial. There are several prominent mispronunciations, but an egregious mistake is the word “agape,” Christian love. However, Drummond’s energy doesn’t let the book lag, and his clarity is admirable. The basic job of conveying the book is roughly but effectively done. W.M. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2011]