SHANGHAI

Jonathan Davis digs deep into his narration toolbox in this atmospheric audiobook set in 1939. As the world prepares for war, displaced European Jews attempt a departure to parts unknown. Davis employs a stoic tone when describing Kristallnacht, the beatings, and the rounding up of family members. When the disparate citizens gather on a last-chance trip to Shanghai, Davis modulates the tempo and emotion throughout the remainder of the audiobook, ratcheting up the excitement for the final confrontation between the protagonist, Daniel, who is on the run from the Nazis, and Colonel Yamada, head of the Japanese Gestapo. Author Kanon is a master of plot coordination and mood, making this journey to Shanghai a satisfying listen. R.W.S. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2024]