THE AMERICAN SOUL

Jacob Needleman examines a number of historical figures and situations for the insight they provide into the American character. Some, like Washington at Valley Forge or Lincoln and the Civil War, are well known; others less so. In all cases, Needleman's clear, impassioned voice guides us, now explaining, now calling for ethical rejuvenation. When Needleman speaks, he inspires. His pace is masterful, smoothly blending pauses for emphasis and complexity. However, the choice to include actors as the voices of the historical figures quoted doesn't work well. The shift in voices breaks the mood, and none of the actors master the cadences (or regional accents) of skilled orators such as Frederick Douglass. G.T.B. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 02]