NORMAL RULES DON'T APPLY Stories

Paterson Joseph's remarkable performance of Kate Atkinson's newest book transmutes the whimsical, witty, and absurdist stories from adroit to splendid. The acclaimed British actor's light, engaging baritone and exquisite delivery offer pleasure and comfort in equal measure as he guides us through narratives that truly do not follow normal rules. They include talking animals, the end of the world, an attentive ghost, an unlucky fairy-tale princess, conversations between toys, and--an Atkinson leitmotif--characters who reappear in different guises. Some tales resemble episodes more than actual stories. Abrupt, enigmatic endings are the norm. Joseph's warm embrace of a voice and sensitive pacing highlight the clever writing while ushering us safely through the dangerous shoals of Atkinson's rule-free world. A.C.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2023]