From Library Journal
Originally published in 1902, this novella occupies a decidedly minor place among Twain's works. While it offers flashes of brilliance, it is in the main a dreary story that even Twain buffs wish had never been written. Indeed, many listeners may find it repulsive. The tale begins in 1880 with the marriage of a Virginia belle to a blackguard who abuses her for months, then ties her to a tree, has bloodhounds tear off her clothes, and abandons her. Afterward, the woman bears a son who proves to have the tracking powers of a bloodhound. Years later, she sends him off to track down his father and torment him, in revenge. Unpleasant stuff, but the story does have light moments, including the appearance of a bumbling Sherlock Holmes. Thomas Becker's reading is competent but does nothing to improve the text. Recommended only to libraries that want complete Twain collections.
R. Kent Rasmussen, Thousand Oaks, CACopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to the
Audio CD
edition.
Twain's wit and extraordinary ability as a wordsmith are brought to life in this fully voiced dramatic reading. Each character in this convoluted parody of the nineteenth-century mystery is delightfully distinct, from the British aristocratic voice of Sherlock Holmes, to the stern sheriff who sounds remarkably like John Wayne. As expected, the story begins with a "heinous crime" which must, in due course, be avenged. How this comes about is a challenge for modern-day listeners unused to the flowery language of the past. But perseverance is amply repaid by the amusing and satisfying conclusion. An excellent alliance between text and reader. S.G. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine
