The Invisible Man

A harrowing read from cover to cover, THE INVISIBLE MAN is perfect for the audio format. The action-packed plot, eccentric characters, and entertaining dialogue could overwhelm a narrator, but British actor Daniel Philpott is the man for the job. His voice is energetic throughout the book and echoes the author's ironic tone. His vocal characterizations are wonderfully diverse, running the gamut from elderly busybodies to country constables. Much of the dialogue is exceedingly humorous because of Philpott's range of accents. The Invisible Man, insanely egotistical, is brought to life by Philpott's portrayal of his infuriated outbursts and scattered thoughts. Even though Wells's protagonist is difficult to imagine, Philpott's narrative skill makes it clear why this novel is such a memorable classic. D.M.W. (c) AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine


When a bandage-swathed stranger books a room in an English village inn, no one realizes this is the beginning of a reign of terror. It's not long before they do! For the Invisible Man is dwelling under that roof, and he is one angry, irascible, and frustrated scientist with little patience for humanity. It may be he was antisocial to begin with, but his invisibility, and the danger and delight it brings him, push him to the brink of madness. Masterfully portrayed by Scott Brick--each of his characterizations is an actorly tour de force--THE INVISIBLE MAN fascinates and mesmerizes, until it's gone. D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine

Starred review from December 1, 2010

It is difficult to imagine a character better suited to audio than an invisible man. Wells's "grotesque romance," particularly as read by Daniel Philpott, makes for riveting listening under any circumstances (though it is perhaps best savored in the dark) and can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. As several other excellent audio editions of this 1897 tale have already been released--e.g., from Tantor Audio, with Scott Brick reading, and Blackstone Audio, with James Adams reading--the question for libraries not yet owning this classic on audio is which recording to acquire. Philpott's powerful performance makes this Naxos edition the prime choice.--R. Kent Rasmussen, Thousand Oaks, CA

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