The Barbarous Years

Henry Strozier's deep, authoritative voice fits the tone and the density of this serious, detailed (occasionally dry) history of the early settling of British North America. His reading is expressive and well modulated to fit the sense of the text, which is enlivened at times by a wry or sarcastic tone. He even emotes and acts when the material permits. Despite his skill, he can't always hold on to some of Bailyn's long, complex sentences all the way through. At times, a slow pace and long pauses make the text seem more ponderous. Overall, though, this remains a strong, able reading of a predominantly thoughtful and informative text. W.M. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine