Highest Narrator Acclaim: Paul Curran/Rookwood

[ejmjensen]

I’ve heard many narrators thru many years of listening to Librivox, On The Go Books, and Audible titles the past 15 years or so. Of course paid actors often rise to and exceed expectations with their performances. But my greatest enjoyment comes from wholesome old titles delivered with the kind of effort and devotion only the all-in volunteer seems to produce. My favorite contributor over time has been Cate Barratt’s wonderful performances of many Arsene Lupin stories by M.LeBlanc. (I’ve let her know this in the past.) But since I recently signed up to hopefully volunteer someday, I thought I’d share my most recent Amazing Librivox performance find.
I lucked into the title Rookwood by W.H. Ainsworth and read by Paul Curran. The story is a Gothic Adventure, which has never been a favorite category before. This story itself is full of exciting characters, both foul and fair, and included quite a few rhyming passages shared by many of the characters. Paul Curran absolutely destroys (in a good way, with nothing left to find) the various personalities, and their poetry and songs sprinkled throughout. I thought I’d hate the rhymes and have to muddle thru to get the story. But I’ve gone and listened to many two and three times as they are so gracefully presented in character by Mr. Curran.
I praise works out there hoping to spur other listeners on to give them a try, and that’s certainly the case with this very noteworthy performance. I also hopefully may influence Mr. Curran toward more offerings as he may find the time. So in sum, I want to say thanks heartily for the time Paul Curran spent recording so well a very worthwhile read. Thank You Paul.

[philchenevert]

Wow! That book just went on my 'gotta listen to' list! thanks for the information

[kayray]

Wow! That book just went on my 'gotta listen to' list! thanks for the information :D

Me too! Thanks!
Here it is: https://librivox.org/rookwood-by-william-harrison-ainsworth/

[Hollyd]

I just finished Rookwood. Paul Curran did a Marvelous job. Was hoping to find other things he's read and found this post that is spot on. Wanted to send a Huzzah! to Paul. Thank you!