Connick narrates this ode to his mother with a deep, loving regard. Anita-Francis Livingston Connick, who, as the youngest of six siblings, was nicknamed Babe, died when Connick was only 13. Yet her impact on Connick's life is profound. He guides listeners through his musical tribute, the elaboratio, in which the music tells the story. Connick draws upon the musical traditions of the places along his mother's journey: New York; Nouasseur, Morocco; and ultimately New Orleans. He describes how the composition emerged from his memories, with the music punctuating and highlighting the spoken passages. This is an effective example of the strengths of the audiobook format, and the result is moving and often thrilling.

A uniquely personal reflection of a mother's life, brilliantly told in words and music.