TANDIA

In a compelling story of South Africa, Courtenay brings the parallel stories of Tandia, a half-African, half-Indian girl, and Peekay, the young boxer and scholar who was introduced in THE POWER OF ONE. Humphrey Bower is brilliant, bringing colorful characters like Juicy Fruit Mambo and Mama Tequila and the vicious, sadistic policemen into sharp relief through speech patterns and emotive phrasing. The story is rich with characters of different races and social status, and Bower portrays each character with exquisite skill. Author and reader teach us about the emotionally charged issues South Africa struggles to resolve, crafting an unforgettable saga. Peekay’s mantra of “First with the head, then with the heart” will resonate in the hearts and minds of listeners long after the final chapter. R.F.W. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 04]