Touch and Go: A Memoir

In a match made in heaven, one of the world's great raconteurs and journalists has written his second memoir (a loosely organized stream-of-consciousness remembrance) and turns to one of the most recognizable voices in audiobooks to read it. Studs Terkel, still hard at work in his 10th decade, remembers his childhood in the rip-roaring Chicago of the 1920s and 1930s, his favorite screen stars and his awakening to politics. Norman Dietz takes delight in each word, rolling them over his tongue as if the memories were his own and the pleasure personal. Terkel's book is not strong in the organization department, but what it lacks in order it makes up for with verve. Dietz follows Terkel's lead, depending on enthusiasm to carry the day. Considering the respective skills of author and reader, it should come as little surprise that it does. Simultaneous release with the New Press hardcover (Reviews, Aug. 27). (Dec.)