COAL BLACK HORSE

Set during the Civil War, this harrowing coming-of-age story finds 14-year-old Robey Child on a journey to find his father, a soldier, on the fields of Gettysburg. Accompanied by an almost mystical black horse that he acquires shortly after setting out, he encounters unrelenting cruelty, deceit, and carnage along the way. This journey forces him to grow up too soon and alters his understanding of himself and the world. Ed Sala takes a respectful, matter-of-fact approach that allows listeners to endure the grim unfolding of the narrative. His gravelly voice, which is low and calm, provides a perfect counterpoint to the violence and chaos. While not for the squeamish, this powerful audiobook will resonate with listeners long after the story ends. M.H.N. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 08]