Past Perfect, Present Tense

Two new and 11 previously published short stories are combined with advice on writing from the author. Peck reads the literary advice himself, and, while he is far from a professional narrator, there is quite a bit of charm to hearing him talk about the fine art of writing fiction. The stories run the gamut from historical to gothic to realistic. Before each grouping, Peck tells listeners how he came to write the stories, and the inside view is fascinating. Lara Schwartzberg and Paul Boehmer are less successful; their narration is more serviceable than sparkling, with Schwartzberg's attempt at a British accent in the creepy "Waiting for Sebastian" a particular disappointment. Still, Peck's dry wit and enormous skill rise above most of the narration problems. This will certainly find a secure niche in writing classes. S.G. (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine