WHAT THE DEAD MEN SAY

Alan Zimmerman reads Gorman's sad tale with empathy, drama, and sympathy. He uses variations in pacing and volume to help listeners understand Septemus Ryan's state of mind. After the killing of his daughter in a botched bank robbery, Septemus hears the voices of the dead, including his daughter. Using the pretext of teaching him about manhood, Septemus takes his nephew, James, on a trip. Sadly, James learns about revenge, murder, despair, and insanity. Zimmerman's rich, masculine voice easily distinguishes the many male characters and adds to the Old West atmosphere. In the end, listeners will realize that James is a man and Septemus is finally at peace. S.C.A. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/MAR 01]