THE SEER OF SHADOWS

Avi's latest is a historical novel with a touch of magical mystery. In New York City in 1872, photography is still a new technology—part science and part magic. Horace Carpetine, who was raised to believe in the rationality of science over superstition, has been apprenticed to the photographer Enoch Middleditch. However, his rational mind is challenged when Mrs. Von Macht commissions a photograph to calm the restless spirit of her dead daughter. Steven Boyer animates 14-year-old Horace as he wrestles with his desire to learn and his unease with the dishonest methods of Mr. Middleditch. Wisely, the production adds no embellishments, letting Boyer's vocal talents create an atmosphere of mystery and otherworldliness that lures the listener in to the end of this compelling tale. N.E.M. Winner of AudioFIle Earphones Award © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]