Heirs to Forgotten Kingdoms

This audiobook is different from most current books on the Middle East. Its focus is on ancient religions of the region that are trying to survive rather than on those that are in the news. It's as much a travelogue and anthropological study as it is a fascinating history. Michael Page's stately, formal British accent is reminiscent of informational programs on public television. This isn't a bad thing, but his voice doesn't rise above the facts to present a more compelling vision of the book. While it would have been better if he could have varied his pitch and tone more, he pronounces each word carefully and does a great job with the names and places. Overall, he speaks at a pace that allows listeners to ponder the book's broad ideas. R.I.G. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine