The Secret Scripture

“Luminous and lyrical.” —O, The Oprah Magazine

“Lucky listeners receive the gift of a great narrator and an amazing writer…Rose’s determined Irish lilt, a priest’s oily tones, Dr. Grene’s fragile neutrality. It’s all here, and it’s terrific. Winner of the AudioFile Earphones Award.” —AudioFile

“By juxtaposing several views of the life of Roseanne McNulty, Sebastian Barry creates a remarkable portrait, detailed analysis, and an engaging mystery surrounding her life…Narrator Wanda McCaddon alternates between an old woman’s creaky rasps for Roseanne and Dr. Grene’s outwardly professional, sympathetic though insecure voice. McCaddon does a fine job of presenting the nuances of Roseanne’s history through these two characters’ actions, thoughts, and memories. Those who love historical novels will find this audiobook fascinating. Those interested in women’s history, especially in the times and places where women come under the influence of an unscrupulous, moralistic, patriarchal, and blatantly biased society, will come to admire Roseanne’s survival to the century mark. A thought-provoking audiobook for adults and mature teens.” —SoundCommentary.com

“Wanda McCaddon does a spectacular job voicing the characters…Among the year’s best audio adaptations; highly recommended for all collections.” —Library Journal (starred audio review)

“McCaddon’s performance is among the best of the year. Her believable portrayal is perfectly modulated and nuance-filled, creating a stunning listening experience.” —Publishers Weekly (starred audio review)

“Above all it is the surpassing quality of Mr. Barry’s language that gives it its power…It is like a song, with all the pulse of the Irish language, a song sung liltingly and plaintively from the top of Ben Bulben into the airy night.” —New York Times