BETWEEN THE LINES

The characters in Nikki Grimes's newest novel-in-verse confront a variety of serious personal problems. An ensemble cast brings to life this story of a high school poetry class in which the students learn about themselves, each other, and how to move ahead in spite of their issues. The story reflects the group's ethnic diversity, giving this listen high #OwnVoices appeal. Edward Lopez, who narrates the character with the largest speaking role, offers the least credibility. New York teens from working-class Dominican households simply don't speak English or Spanish with the blandness he exhibits. In contrast, narrators Sisi Johnson, Almarie Guerra, and Ruffin Prentiss provide nuanced and wholly credible performances. F.M.R.G. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2018]