A Drop of Patience

This audiobook captures the timelessness of this novel, originally published in 1965. Jay Smooth's performance is excellent, often as lyrical as the music explored in the plot itself. In a compassionate yet authoritative tone, Smooth leads the listener through Ludlow Washington's early musical life, beginning with his abandonment at a school for the blind and traversing his burgeoning career on the jazz stages of America. Smooth's depiction of dialogue is especially animated and engaging, with each voice projecting its own personality. Touching upon topics of race, disability, neglect, and love, this audiobook is made even more relevant by Smooth's relatable performance and timing. The novel itself can drag at times, but Smooth's narration is likely to maintain the listener's patience. L.B.F. � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine