Jane Eyre

British actress Joanna David quickly captivates listeners with her deft narration of this skillfully abridged classic. David's quietly commanding performance introduces Brontë many characters in memorable ways that ensure our loyalty lies deeply with the orphaned, mistreated Jane. Her narration invites listeners to experience firsthand the spirited heroine's wide range of emotions. Like Jane, we recoil at unforgiving Mrs. Reed's harsh and unfair punishments, feel relief at her escape to Thornfield to work as a governess, suffer with her over the confusing yet attractive Rochester's behavior, and delight in her hard-won happiness. Even those who know the story well will catch new resonances in this fine performance. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine