A review by cjeanne99
Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders

fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

A delightful and entertaining listen. Frankly - I think listening to this book is the best way to experience it. The voices of Hans Vollman and Roger Bevins trade off so quickly in their narration - that I would have lost some of that if it was up to my imagination to provide their voices. I also would have skimmed all the quotes regarding the Civil War and Lincoln - but I listened to them all. 
It's 1862 - Willie Lincoln has died of typhoid - and is brought to a cemetery occupied by people in the Bardo - they don't realize they are dead. Lead by Hans Vollman - the occupants of the Bardo tell us their stories - while also trying to help the newcomer - a child who turns out to be William Lincoln - to understand where he is. 
A grieving Abraham Lincoln visits the cemetery - and the occupants of the Bardo interact with him. In the end - they learn that life is tenuous - and their fond memories are just that. 
Very well done.