SCISSION

Celebrated Australian author Tim Winton's eclectic story collection is intense and well performed in this audiobook. And Samuel Johnson is all-in as the narrator: He can veer from growling to shouting in a heartbeat, then return to a soft murmur the next second. His accent fits Winton's setting and style seamlessly. As the author examines the essence of the human experience, an expansive array of emotions consistently cycles through the text, and Johnson's investment in his performance makes them readily accessible to listeners. Sometimes that kind of intensity can be overwhelming; indeed, the stories may well be better enjoyed one at a time, rather than all in one sitting. Nonetheless, this audiobook is well done and worth a listen. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2022]