Doxology

June 3, 2019
Beginning in the early days of the 1990s and moving through the years to the 2016 election, Zink’s solid fourth novel (after Nicotine) follows the exploits of the members of a short-lived New York City punk band. Pam and Daniel have a daughter, Flora, before their careers can even begin to take off; meanwhile, Joe, the singer, has a breakthrough when he writes an unexpected hit single. As his fame grows, Pam and Daniel focus on raising Flora. On 9/11, everything changes, not just because of the attacks, but also because of an unexpected death that occurs on the same day. The second half of the book focuses more on Flora’s coming-of-age as she, among other things, becomes a campaign staffer for Jill Stein. As time passes, Zink infuses the novel with as many period details as possible (for instance, “bricklike cell phones”), but the repeated intrusion of the narrator explaining the political and cultural developments during the last 30 years becomes a bit overbearing and, worse, mostly unnecessary. Still, Zink’s gifts for characterization and richly evoked periods and places are on display throughout. Zink’s longest novel is her most ambitious and perhaps her most effective.

Eileen Stevens's youthfully vibrant narration perfectly complements this audiobook, set in the New York independent music scene of the 1990s. The audio format suits Zink's inventive language, which is beautifully delivered by Stevens. Her gift for characterization is evident in her nuanced portrayals of a trio of friends--Joe, Daniel, and Pam--who form a lasting bond after connecting through music. She sensitively conveys the maturing voice of Pam and Daniel's daughter, Flora, who becomes interested in environmental activism. While much of the narration moves at the spirited pace of young lives, Stevens slows the tempo to one of somber contemplation when depicting the events of 9/11. An intriguing listen, full of nostalgia for the recent past and questions about the future. M.J. � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine