The Mitford Years

Library Journal

Karon does a remarkable job of giving voice to the inhabitants of her fictional North Carolina mountain town in this boxed four-book set of her popular Mitford series. Yet fans will be disappointed in the abridgment, which eliminates so much that the entire series is now shorter than the unabridged recording of any one of the four books (e.g., Out to Canaan, Audio Reviews, LJ 12/97). Although this version leaves the plot relatively intact, a number of minor characters are omitted. The abridgment, while usually seamless, is occasionally slightly choppy as detailed information is summarized by tacking a few words onto the end or beginning of a sentence. Readers of the Mitford novels will miss the odd details that give the books much of their charm and humor, like the prayer that Father Tim utters each morning before entering his office. His growing relationship with neighbor Cynthia Coppersmith also suffers as many of their scenes together are left out. Those new to the Mitford series can certainly follow the general plot of the books by listening to these abridged recordings, but they will lose much of what gives it its following. Karon, whose pleasant voice holds more than a hint of the South, does a splendid job of providing distinct voices to the diverse Mitford residents. This attractively packaged set is more appropriate as a gift for a fan rather than as a library purchase. Not recommended.--Leah Sparks, Bowie P.L., MD