FENCING WITH THE KING

Accents abound and cultures rub shoulders in this fine audiobook production of Diana Abu-Jaber's compelling crossroads novel. Like the poet/protagonist, Amani, narrator Rasha Zamamiri serves as a bridge between American and Jordanian voices, rulers and hermits, males and females, aged and young. Amani's first-time impressions and her search for her heritage offer a privileged tour of Jordan in the 1990s. The occasion is the Jordanian king's 60th birthday celebration--with time for a little romance and family history. While Zamamiri will be a fresh voice for most listeners, the precision and range of her subtle and expressive performance are sure to impress. D.A.W. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2022]