Orlando

Originally written in the late 1920's, Orlando is the fascinating and fantastic tale of an aristocratic writer and observer whose life spans several centuries. This complex story of androgyny is marvelously narrated by Laura Paton. Her velvet voice lusciously conveys Woolf's lavish and sensual prose. This audiobook is performed with unusual clarity due to Paton's unhurried delivery. Her measured, careful pace makes each word stand out. She's an excellent storyteller and her well-crafted performance makes this an outstanding listening experience. Selections from Vivaldi, Bach, Beethoven and Ravel add to the enjoyment. A.A.B. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine


Clare Higgins's supple, silky voice does justice to Woolf's literary landmark. The language of Orlando, peppered with alliterative phrases, flows effortlessly with perfect pacing by Higgins, and Woolf's dry wit shines through her performance. As the character of Orlando changes genders and situations through the centuries, the story is sustained by Higgins's fluid reading. While an enhanced experiment in gender identity is the focus of the story, the star of this recording is Woolf's language. The combination of her words and Higgins's voice is an ideal convergence. The rich descriptions of Orlando's surroundings linger pleasantly in the listener's ears. R.F. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine