THE MIRACLE LIFE OF EDGAR MINT

After Edgar’s head is run over by a mail Jeep, the 7-year-old “Apache-crossbreed” almost orphan is rushed to the hospital, where some unorthodox treatment saves his life. Edgar’s most lasting brain damage comes in the form of sudden seizures, a lumpy head, and the fact that he can only write using a typewriter. His recovery at St. Divine’s Hospital, his brutalization at the B.I.A. school for orphans and delinquents, and his stay with a Mormon foster family combine tragedy with comedy in this exceptional debut novel. Scott Shina’s performance is itself miraculous. There’s not a false note in his narration. His ingenuous Edgar is lovable and hilarious. Bullies are appropriately ominous. Udall’s storytelling delights, and Shina’s reading brings a series of appealing and despicable characters to life. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 03]