As Bright as Heaven

In 1918, the Bright family moves to Philadelphia to take over the family funeral business. As they settle in, the great Spanish flu epidemic strikes, and death is everywhere. The story is told through the points of view of the women in the family. Tavia Gilbert as Pauline, the mother, is quietly accepting of the grim specter, treating it as a dark friend. Abigail Revasch portrays daughter Maggie with strength and determination. Oldest daughter Evelyn, performed by Jorjeana Marie, is horrified by their new circumstances and the growing dangers. All three actors are completely credible, but the standout performance is Cassandra Morris's, in which she portrays the youngest daughter, Willa. Morris's childlike voice is perfect expressing Willa's exuberance and inexperience. This is a satisfying exploration of family, sorrow, love, and hope. S.J.H. � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine