SWALLOW'S DANCE

Turning the prose and poetry of Orr's historical tale into an audiobook works well in telling the story of Leira, a well-born girl of Bronze Age Crete. On her first day of instruction in becoming a priestess, an earthquake changes the lives of everyone on her island forever. Rosalyn Oades's dramatic narration portrays the characters' increasingly dangerous situation, Mama's debilitated mental state, and Leira's growing awareness of her family's social situation. As the story depicts the hardships the islanders are facing, Oades's narration portrays both the adults' and Leira's difficulties, along with her resolve to do what is necessary to save her family. E.J.F. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2020]