THE FLAME ALPHABET

In a time and place similar to ours--but different--a world-changing event occurs. The very language spoken by children causes adults to sicken, even die. Then, even the written word affects people. Scientists struggle to contain the epidemic but find it impossible without the ability to communice or to read reports and texts. Can anything save the human race? Ben Marcus's novel is fascinating, but, ironically, considering the subject, it's overwritten. Narrator Andy Paris's gentle voice dampens the horror of the words. Yet his delivery is pitch-perfect, giving the feeling that hysteria is just moments away. The book is a fascinating discourse on a bizarre situation that forces listeners to confront all their beliefs and suppositions. M.S. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2013]