THE LEOPARD

Di Lampedusa’s novel paints a picture of 1860s pre-unification Italy in an attempt to show what was gained—and what was lost—when the nation came together. Edoardo Ballerini narrates with seemingly flawless accents, both Italian and French. Sadly, he’s the best thing about this book. The writing is not categorically bad but does not translate well for contemporary American readers. Characterization is scant, giving the listener little to latch onto in the first half of the book other than Ballerini’s soothing, melodic voice, which can lead to wandering attention. Ballerini is a good match for Lampedusa’s work, but most listeners won’t find as much to enjoy in the book itself as they will in his talent at narration. J.L.K. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2013]