The 42nd Parallel

In this first book of the U.S.A. Trilogy, John Dos Passos pioneers an experimental style of writing that is meant to take in the entire American experience. With bits of newspaper clippings, telegrams, songs, and biographies as interludes, the story tells of Americans during WWI. Narrating this book is no mean feat, and David Drummond is fully invested in the project. While his "gee whiz" tone surprises at first, as the book goes on, it's clear that his interpretation fits Dos Passos's unique style. One can imagine a different type of narration, but Drummond's approach brings listeners into this distinctive fictional world with fervor and energy. K.M. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine