FOREVER

The sequel to SHIVER and LINGER recounts Sam’s efforts to relocate his shape-shifting wolf pack. A superb cast of narrators augments Stiefvater’s intimate writing. There’s no weak link here: Four narrators depict Isabelle, Grace, Cole, and Sam with unwavering skill. Their proficiency lets listeners climb inside each character and see his or her world close up. As Sam, Pierce Cravens is the introspective storyteller who keeps the shifting story clear. As Isabelle and Cole, Emma Galvin and Dan Bittner display flawless pacing. Bittner’s gritty voice delivers fluid phrases that expose the complex character of the swaggering, washed-up rock-star god. Jenna Lamia subtly hints at Grace’s sense of humor without overacting or seeming stilted. Stiefvater herself narrates a section—and composed the recording’s original music. Savvy production choices make this a stellar full-cast performance. C.A. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2011]