THE GOATS

Two social misfits are marooned on an island overnight without their clothes--a traditional summer camp prank. But the two refuse to become victims and escape, their emerging friendship providing each with unsuspected courage and sagaciousness. Cole identifies these two, poised on the cusp of sexual maturity, only as "the boy" and "the girl." Ed Sala's subtle touch--the main characters are differentiated only by slight shifts in pitch and inflection--underscores the psychological subtleties of the story. His masterful use of the pause adds poignancy to the dialogue and provides space for the thoughtful listener to gain insight and experience a richer understanding of Cole's unusual and compelling novel. Sala's respect for the text makes this the perfect marriage of narrative style and content. D.M.L. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 98]