REBECCA'S REWARD

Renee Ertl captures Rebecca Board's youthful dream of starting an ice cream parlor in her hometown of Blessing. With subtle emotional nuances she depicts Rebecca's brother's initial humor—he's certain she's too young—which soon turns to concern when he sees she’s serious. Ertl’s portrayal of Rebecca's frustration with her family’s lack of belief in her is especially believable. When Rebecca visits her cousin Penny in Bismarck, she visits a soda shop to gain business advice. Ertl perfectly renders Rebecca's new sense of direction and determination to succeed when she returns home. In addition, Ertl’s depiction of business owner Mr. Jeffers, as well as town gossip Mrs. Valders and her shy adopted son, brings laughter and tears. This is too good to miss. G.D.W. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2009]