Your Inner Hedgehog

Paul Hecht’s performance of *Your Inner Hedgehog* is a masterclass in comedic timing, whether he’s voicing von Igelfeld’s pompous internal monologue or the exasperated reactions of those unlucky enough to cross paths with him. There’s a reason Hecht is the go-to narrator for McCall Smith’s work—he understands the rhythm of the humor here, particularly in scenes where von Igelfeld’s delusions of grandeur collide with the mundane realities of university politics. The pacing is brisk enough to keep the satire from feeling overlong, though I did find myself wishing for a few more moments where the absurdity could breathe and linger. The production is clean, with no distracting audio quirks, though the occasional shift in tone between dry humor and broader comedic beats feels slightly uneven. That said, the story’s reliance on von Igelfeld’s obliviousness wears thin around the halfway mark, as the joke risks becoming repetitive. The supporting cast—particularly the harried librarians and the smug rector—are all delightfully two-dimensional, which works for the comedic tone but leaves little room for depth. Still, for fans of McCall Smith’s other work, this is a solid entry, and Hecht’s narration elevates the material enough to make the occasional lull feel worth the ride. If you’ve ever laughed at a character’s misfortune while simultaneously rooting for them, this audiobook will scratch that itch.