Fine, Anne
Description
From AudioFile This book asks the essential question, "Why are you listening to this?" Unfortunately, it never gives a satisfactory answer. The story
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concerns a philosopher who returns to live with his children, his ex-wife, and her new husband in order to write his autobiography. Why he does this obviously silly thing is never explained, but narrator Cornelius Garrett does a fine job making it funny. The text requires him to be outraged and flabbergasted most of the time, and his expressive British accent is up to the task. He creates memorable characters, especially during the outrageous arguments that punctuate the book. It's too bad the text makes you wonder what all that fussing is about. R.I.G. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine From Library Journal Fine's 1990 novel is hardly a good example of her potential as a novelist. The premise of a man moving in with his ex-wife, their children, and her new husband to write his autobiography must have held some comic promise for her, but the book is too painful to listen to, and the plot is far too weak to sustain one's interest. The lone saving grace might be narrator Cornelius Garrett's verbal calisthenics with the melodramatic emotions of the major characters, none of whom are very likable or developed. Perhaps the title is a clue for what should be avoided. Not recommended. Joyce Kessel, Villa Maria Coll., Buffalo, NY Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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