MEMORIES OF THE FUTURE

Katherine Fenton is the ideal narrator for Hustvedt's latest novel, which explores familiar themes of the unreliability of memory, academia, social isolation in urban settings, and sexual politics. The story is told by middle-aged S.H. as she reflects on her time as a young graduate student in late-1970s New York City. Fenton's clear enunciation and skilled phrasing help listeners navigate both the shifting time periods and the unusual narrative structure, which incorporates diary entries and chapters of unpublished manuscripts. The flawless pacing of the narration, with increases in speed to replicate the frenetic rhythms of city life and the slowing of tempo to illuminate S.H.'s childhood remembrances, is impressive. Fans of Hustvedt will delight in this audiobook. M.J. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2019]