THE BOLDNESS OF BETTY

Eva-Jane Gaffney is more actor than narrator in this stellar production. She laughs, cries, and even sings as she delivers the memoir of a fictional character's experiences during the 1913 workers' strike in Dublin. Betty Rafferty, a 14-year-old working-class shop girl, sounds like the friend you always wanted. Betty's family and friends take part in an uncompromising months-long struggle against unfair labor conditions. With her native Irish accent, Gaffney captures Betty's moods and qualities--she is fiercely loyal to family, friends, and union; wryly amusing as the put-upon babysitter of an annoying nephew; empathetic and consoling to beaten and homeless striking friends. Gaffney showcases various Irish accents and the code-switching that Betty and fellow workers employ when serving Dublin's elite society. Historical notes are included. L.T. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2021]