DIAMOND WILLOW

Jennifer Ikeda and the Recorded Books Repertory Theater narrate this lyrical and heartfelt tale of survival in Alaska. Twelve-year-old Willow, who is part Athabascan Indian, convinces her parents to let her mush the dogs alone to visit her grandparents. Returning home, Willow causes the head dog, Roxy, to become seriously injured. When she learns Roxy is to be euthanized, Willow embarks on a perilous journey in a snowstorm to save her. Ikeda effectively portrays Willow's youthful inadequacies while also revealing her pluck. The other cast members add their voices to the story as various animals that are the reincarnates of Willow's ancestors. The print book's unique format, which listeners cannot see, is explained in an author's note. An engaging story. L.A.C. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2009]