RUFFIAN ON THE STAIR

Bill Wallis brings his considerable talents to Nina Bawden's piercing scrutiny of one man's life and its effect on the lives of those around him. Silas Mudd is about to turn 100. His family plans an appropriately gala birthday celebration for him. Bawden develops her story largely through painfully perceptive interior monologues, which unmask deep resentments, forbidden attractions, hostilities, and genuine caring. Through these, we meet Effie, Silas's sickly first wife; his second wife, Bella, given to wearing flashy, too tight clothing; his always admirable aunt; and the other important women in his life. Wallis's voice quivers with rage, whispers dark secrets, and resounds with bravado as he undertakes the revelations of an unusual family, brilliantly reconstructed by one of Britain's master storytellers. S.J.H. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 02]