CHER AMI AND MAJOR WHITTLESEY

This affecting novel is based on real WWI heroes, American Major Charles Whittlesey and Cher Ami, a carrier pigeon. Narrator Noah Michael Levine's performance establishes Major Whittlesey as a man of conscience, devoted to his men. Juliana Canfield, as Cher Ami, gives an exceptional performance without becoming precious. She offers an intelligent pigeon's-eye-view of the frightening sounds and reeking smells of war. From her permanent perch at the Smithsonian, Cher Ami observes, comments, and remembers the trenches, the battles, and the men. When his unit is being bombarded by friendly fire, Whittlesey sends Cher Ami to HQ with corrected coordinates. Levine re-creates Whittlesey's desperation, while Canfield makes us feel Cher Ami's determination fulfill her mission, whatever the cost. Both narrators develop fully credible characters. Top-notch historical fiction. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2020]