Unruly Places

Derek Perkins gives a flawless performance in this fascinating examination of global topophilia (a sense of place) and biophilia (the bond between human beings and other living systems). Perkins's articulate and unrushed narration allows the listener to assimilate the plethora of geographical, political, cultural, and historical facts offered in this study of 47 extraordinary, and mostly unknown, locations. Perkins's credible command of numerous accents, in addition to deft modulations to introduce each new location and bring out various local voices, keeps many parts of the book, with their extensive information, from being too dry. While all these aspects of his narration are engaging, it's Perkins's warmth that truly reveals his understanding of the book and that effectively conveys the message about the significance of place. M.F. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine