THE ROME ZOO

Robert Meldrum's eloquent voice and fluid narrative style do full justice to this darkly humorous novel set in one of the oldest zoological gardens in Italy. At the heart of this slightly surreal story is the relationship between Giovanna, who was hired by the zoo to reimagine the venerable institution's public image, and Chahine, a mysterious Algerian visitor with whom she explores obscure corners of the gardens and their ghosts. This fictional storyline of events affecting the couple and the zoo's transformation is cleverly juxtaposed with equally intriguing chapters chronicling the real zoo's tumultuous history. The engaging storytelling quality of Meldrum's narration and his exquisite pacing captivates as he guides listeners between past and present. His compelling interpretation of the text creates a truly exceptional listening experience. S.A.A. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2022]