SILENT BOY

A book for young people with an oddly adult spin, THE SILENT BOY revolves around Katy Thatcher's reminiscence of her early years. The privileged daughter of the town doctor, she observes the intersection between that life of privilege and the working-class realities of her family's hired girls. The story also examines Katy's relationship with Jacob, the silent boy, regarded by most as "touched," and the tragic consequences brought about by the mores of the time. Karen Allen's sturdy reading features a measured pace and a quiet tone with an appropriately old-time feel. Her unvoiced narration effectively suggests an old woman looking back upon her earlier life. The adult perspective makes this an audiobook that may appeal more to grown-ups than to young people. S.G. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 03/JAN 04]