The Commission

NEW YORK TIMES reporter Shenon tells the behind-the-scenes story of the workings of the 9/11 Commission and the production of its report. Dave Mallow's narration fits the book's cool tone. If anything, his voice is too professionally mellow, like that of a late-night FM radio host. But he delivers the material with an easy and transparent expertise. He conveys feeling and opinion subtly and in doing so mirrors the book, which reports the events and the reactions of those involved without much overt commentary, though it certainly takes sides. Despite the lack of histrionics, this story of the sacrifice of truth and even national security for political expediency and personal advantage will anger and shock most listeners. W.M. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine