The Art of Falling

By: Kathryn Craft

Narrated by: Devon Sorvari

One wrong step could send her over the edge....

All Penny has ever wanted to do is dance - and when that chance is taken from her, it pushes her to the brink of despair, from which she might never return. When she wakes up after a traumatic fall, bruised and battered but miraculously alive, Penny must confront the memories that have haunted her for years, using her love of movement to pick up the pieces of her shattered life.

Kathryn Craft's lyrical debut novel is a masterful portrayal of a young woman trying to come to terms with her body and the artistic world that has repeatedly rejected her. The Art of Falling expresses the beauty of movement, the stasis of despair, and the unlimited possibilities that come with a new beginning.

©2013 Kathryn Craft (P)2020 Tantor

Inspiring novel of an artist's body and heart

Sometimes you find an audiobook where the author and the narrator are so intertwined that their voices become one. The Art of Falling is one of those books. The novel is an intimate examination of the world of dance and the fearless commitment needed to succeed. Unfortunately, the gatekeepers have extraordinary sway over those trying to break in on the ground floor. So, we witness the rise and fall and rise of one dancer's story in this inspiring and tender novel. First off, I found Devon Sorvari's performance so beautifully nuanced and honest I was immediately immersed in the story. Honestly, at times, I felt like I was listening to an autobiography. What inspired me most was that Sorvari shares what the lead character is "fighting for" rather than "fighting against." It allows the listener to struggle alongside the character and have a deep investment in her successes and failures. I also have to tip my hat to the second lead, Angela. Angela is a character who, on the surface, struggles with a life-altering disease. Again, through Kathryn Craft's words and Sorvari's performance, we are given a window into what a fighting spirit sounds like. They both peel back the layer of Angela's desire for connection and human contact with such mastery and truth. I am not one to shed tears listening to an audiobook, and I must say that several times I got shiny eyes listening to Agnela's story.

I guess it's true, there is an art to falling as well as getting up.
During this time of Covid, I needed to hear this. The closing of theaters decimated my community of artists. During this intermission of sorts, I have looked to different sources to offer stability and inspiration. I am so grateful to have had this book land in my lap at this time. So, until the intermission bell rings, I will sit back and reflect on those times, "When comradery and human touch were part of my daily existence." (chapter 8)