SINGING LESSONS FOR THE STYLISH CANARY

Graham Halstead performs this audiobook as if he is conspiring with the listener. He delivers the galloping historical novel, predominantly set in France, with just the right pace and intonation. His tempo works well for the many characters in a story that moves from small-town France to New York City. Music runs through the text, as well, as the family business of Henri Blanchard is crafting serinettes, small hand organs that are used to teach male canaries to sing. The author writes stylishly, paying attention to period details, and tosses in a dollop of magical realism. Henri's father, a master craftsman, is dubbed the "sun bringer," and Henri himself can bring the dead back to life. This debut novel is a fine and fun listen. A.D.M. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2022]