CANE

A male narrator may seem an odd choice for this rhythmic story with a vivid female protagonist. However, Sean Crisden ably captures the poetry in Jean Toomer's writing. His gentle, cadenced delivery lulls one into listening. The prose may remind one of the style and thematic interests of Toni Morrison, and the dreamlike quality of the narrative is enhanced in audio form. The rich description of scenery, dialogue, and characters are woven with an undercurrent of often violent race relations. For fans of literary fiction, this outstanding audiobook demonstrates how the five senses can come alive when one is being read a story. M.R. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2013]