Thirteen Ways of Looking

McCann's able narration of this story collection has the same lyrical, measured quality as the Wallace Stevens poem that inspired its title. Indeed, each story has a calm, meandering pace as it explores words and images in the way of good poetry, often with ample pauses that imply line breaks. Characters reflect on the complex nature of life in vivid snapshots, and McCann's voice enlivens the somber moments as well as the lighter ones. The author's soft tone and appealing accent lull the listener into another, quieter place. This audiobook's subtle quality may not be for everyone, but those willing to let the narrator take over will be led down a thought-provoking and emotionally rich path. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine