THE MEANING OF HUMAN EXISTENCE

Wilson's examination of the purpose of humanity as illuminated by our evolutionary history gives the listener some fascinating science, along with some less compelling philosophizing. Jonathan Hogan's voice is strong and his reading expressive and vigorous, sometimes overly so. The reading can be heavy-handed, as if he were declaiming dramatic news, with more force than the intimate context of audio requires. Most distracting is his breathing, which often seems long and loud. His pacing is generally good, although in some of the more complex passages, it's a bit too fast. Still, Hogan's expressiveness, energy, and genial tone may win over persistent listeners. W.M. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2014]