Worth a listen for fans of the novel

Fans have been waiting a long time for this Stephen King classic to be released on Audio CD. At first, Spacek's presence as reader seems like a dream come true, but it's actually a case of inspired stunt casting. Fans of Brian DePalma's film will likely be chomping at the bit to hear Carrie herself revisit this story. Spacek's audio interpretaion is formal, stoic, and elegant...yet it lacks the urgency and intensity she brought to her work in the 1976 movie. Strange to hear this talented actress inhabit this pivotal role once again, and of course, fascinating on some level. But her interpretation of Carrie, despite her sincerity, is somehow aloof. It's in her reading of the character of villainous Chris Hargenson (the part Spacek was originally to have played in the film) that the narrator really delivers. Delightful to hear the sweet, refined Spacek curse up a storm and wallow in King's artful low-rent slang. Also a hoot to hear Spacek reciting lines delivered by Piper Laurie in the film: there's a bit of that throaty, smoky angst that comes through that many listeners will recognize and find welcome-- especially, "I can see your dirtypillows...let's burn that dress together and ask for forgiveness."
Minor concerns aside, I imagine hardcore King fans and devotees of the DePalma movie will think they're in Audio book heaven, and for those who missed the 1988 musical version on Broadway, this CD makes a worthy addition to any "Carrie" lover's collection. The book is unabridged: all the memorable scenes and events are intact. Worth picking up, and a real oddity.