GETTING BACK BRAHMS

When bookshop owner Diana can listen to her favorite requiem again without weeping, she'll count herself over her broken romance. Reluctantly, she gets involved in setting up a library for a fledgling literary foundation run by some amusing wackos. British actress Kim Hicks does a great job with these upper-crust and arty types, as well as with Diana's first-person narrative. She savors every word, drawing out the vowels, pouncing on consonants, and making the most of the author's marvelous figures of speech. It's always interesting to see what Brits do with an American accent; the Yale prof who is part of Diana's therapy doesn't quite ring true. Our heroine's above-it-all attitude and general fortitude leave you in no doubt thatBrahms will return. J.B.G (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 02/ JAN 03]