Attack of the Unsinkable Rubber Ducks

By: Christopher Brookmyre

Narrated by: Angus King

Length: 12 hrs and 59 mins

Publisher's summary

Do we really live on in some conscious form after we die, and is that form capable of communicating with the world of the living?

“Aye, right…” was journalist Jack Parlabane’s stance on the matter. But this was before he found himself in the compromising position of being not only dead himself but dead with an exclusive still to file. One thing he knows for certain: death is not the end - it’s the ultimate undercover assignment.

©2007 Christopher Brookmyre (P)2015 W F Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

"Excellent plotting, seriously funny twists but still thoughtful." ( Guardian)

"Funny, fast-paced satire." ( Metro)

"Laws and sausages."

Another superb book, number five, in the Jack Parlabane series which can easily stand alone. Jack has been a news reporter in Glasgow for years and has just become Rector of the Kelvin University when he is drawn into the debate on the existence, or otherwise, of the continuation of life after death and the ability of spirits to connect with those still in this world, including being brought in as an observer on trials conducted by his university under scientifically controlled conditions to.test for psychic abilities.

Jack is cynical, abrasive and sarcastic, a great character. The story is told in the first person by him, switching to the point of view perspectives of several other players. This does cause some confusion over who is now speaking at any given time, but only briefly. The whole melds together to provide a full picture of this quite convoluted and intriguing tale. Some interesting background history along the.way, too. Angus King, who narrates with a Scottish accent which still allows for clarity of speech, has good pacing and is well modulated in his presentation, with gentle differentiation between characters. A fine performance.

I am a fan of the author's writing: it is intelligent, sometimes complex requiring attention, but worth every moment of time spent. It is also numerous and never condescending. And those titles! Worth getting the book for those alone. Recommended, like all of the Parlabane series.