SUGAR

Narrator Tara Sands deftly presents the sad and challenging life of 17-year-old Mercy Legowski-Gracia, who is Puerto Rican and Polish. Nicknamed Sugar because of her size and love of sweets, she lives in New Hampshire in a rundown house with her mother, who's so obese she can't leave her bed, and her abusive brother, Skunk. Sands convincingly renders "Mama," whose bitterness and sarcasm are palpable, and warmly supportive Even Anderson, a new guy at school who befriends her. Skillfully displaying a wide emotional range, Sands portrays many personality types and delivers diverse accents. Being privy to Sugar's counseling sessions may encourage teens to follow her lead. Listeners will be moved by an unexpected tragedy that Sugar endures while still celebrating her triumph over many obstacles. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2016]