WALTZING THE CAT

You'd think a writer reading her own work would want to linger over every word; not Pam Houston, and it's a shame because her prose is worth savoring. This collection of adventures in the life of outdoor photographer Lucy O'Rourke elicits a range of emotions from the listener, but it's the writing that does it. Houston races through Lucy's unfortunate love affairs, the death of her alcoholic mother, a rafting accident, a hurricane, a whirlwind romance in Provincetown and other revealing incidents at cruising speed, often not pausing at section's or chapter's end. One is left fascinated by this unorthodox, likable woman and in awe of the author's ability to create and personify her, but wishing for more time to enjoy the result. J.B.G. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 99]