The American Soul.

Jacob Needleman. 2002. Read by the author and others. Abridged. 4 tapes. 6 hrs. Audio Literature. 1-57453-516-1. $25.00 Cardboard, plastic; author, reader, content notes. SA

Using narrative, anecdotes and quotations, Needleman tells of America's founding in an emotional way that points to how we can remythologize our national story. When we emphasize the character and contributions of persons such as Washington, Franklin, Lincoln, and Jefferson, he says, we will have a far richer national lire than we will have if we reveal only their flaws: He urges that we rediscover long-sidelined wisdom writings and draw upon a wide variety of morality stories in reformulating our image of who we are. We must be honest in acknowledging the criminal way we have destroyed the culture of our Indians and enslaved African Americans. Unfortunately, the author shows an almost seething disdain for schools and teachers and traditional religious groups in our country, oblivious to the fact that they already promote much of what he advocates. He will need their involvement if his image of revitalizing our love of country is to be realized.

Needleman, who has a dusky voice, reads with warmth and generosity. Others read excerpts from other works, improving listening quality. Our country, this reviewer believes, is ready for this kind of view, and both thoughtful adults and teens will enjoy this audiobook. Edna M. Boardman, Bismark, ND