NEW Understanding Our Need for Novelty and Change

Laural Merlington skillfully guides listeners through Gallagher’s exploration of humankind’s evolving relationship with novelty. Gallagher considers the ways individuals and societies have reacted to new ideas, tools, and methods of doing things, with particular attention to what effect novelty has had on the last few generations. Merlington’s voice has a slight rasp that grabs listeners’ attention and a good amount of personality, which enlivens Gallagher’s prose. Her emphasis and tonal shifts mark the major points well for the ear, and she provides a good amount of enthusiasm and projection. She transitions from anecdote to exposition seamlessly, providing a casual tone for the former and a straightforward tone for the latter. L.E. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2012]