Unearthed

Hillary Huber's narration of this memoir of repairing an enormous run-down garden unexpectedly located in downtown Toronto is nothing short of marvelous. Her voice is rich, warm, expressive, and humorous. As Alex describes the process of restoring the pagoda, beating back invasive weeds, discovering primroses and sugar maples, watching deer without taking a breath, or witnessing the destruction after a huge storm, Huber brings the listener along for a tour of the garden, painting pictures with her voice. The enormity of the physical task is ever present. At the same time, Alex comes to understand the obstacles that her parents faced as Ukrainian immigrants in Canada, putting a new face on her difficult childhood. Huber sensitively translates Alex's newfound empathy and understanding. It's a lovely book, made spectacular by Huber. A.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine