Spoon River Anthology

Deemed "essential" in the canon of American literature, this audiobook masterpiece performed in its entirety by a full cast makes the classic accessible to everyone. From a cemetery in a fictional mid-American town, the dead speak the truths about their lives. Some speak of hardships and sordidness; others, of their simple, honest, happy lives. Some are elderly and others are youthful or children; mortality has claimed them all. Their voices reach us deeply, alternately plaintive, anguished, enigmatic, angry, contemptuous, and comedic, evoking themes of love and hope, disappointment, despair, and abiding faith. As the Spoon River residents examine their lives, they invite us to do the same.Public Domain (P)2002 Patrick Franley and the Audio Partners Publishing Corp. Published by The Audio Partners.

Critic reviews

"The cast of 50, headed by Patrick Fraley and Edward Asner, is well matched to the many characters in this excellent production." (AudioFile)

A must read

American gothic at its finest. An examination of small town midwestern American life from viewpoint of the deceased of a local grave yard. It gives an excellent flavor to 19th century history.

Good dramatic reading

I was looking for a good dramatic reading of this anthology on audio and this is the best one I've found. There is a cast of 50 that includes Patrick Fraley and Edward Asner. I highly recommend this version.

Entertainment at it's best

Being from Central Illinois and visiting "The Hill" many times this Audible Book entertained me and brought a smile to my face. I can't wait to visit the cemetary and follow along with the book.

Authentic characters

4 decades ago I watched my mom play guitar for this book in a play. After her passing, I found a newspaper article featuring my mom and the cast. Being able to find this classic on Audible has actually helped the healing process of losing a parent.
I really enjoyed the variety of speakers representing the people telling their stories. Took me way back to the theater where I grew up.

American Poetry

I should have read this long ago. It illustrates clearly the underlying anger that resides in a segment of American culture. Each of these characters has a bone to pick with their life, their relationships and their death. In rare cases they seem to think they beat the system. I recommend reading for seekers of truth spoken in anther time but in a place like now. I wish someone would offer hope not anger, hate and violence.