FARTHER AWAY Essays

Whether listeners are Franzen devotees or new to his work, they’ll find this audio collection of recent essays and speeches appealing for its sound as well as its sentiments. Franzen is an affable narrator who offers a simultaneously passionate and practical performance. Scott Shepherd sounds equally relaxed and appealing as he provides vocal variety that complements the collection's range of topics. FARTHER AWAY features musings inspired by both the natural and the technological worlds and reflections on personal growth as well as loss. Both narrators capture moments that ring so true they may inspire audible gasps. Occasionally, the pacing, especially at closings, is rushed, but the overall effect is moving and thought-provoking. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2012]