JEWEL

Jewel Hillburn isn't planning a sixth child in 1943. She doesn't know what to think when her friend prophesies that the new baby will be her greatest test and blessing. But as happens with so many families of Down's syndrome children, the prophecy proves true. Kate Forbes offers an accurate Mississippi dialect free of stereotype. Her characters, male and female, old and very young, white and black, sparkle with personality and depth. In a stroke of genius, she portrays Brenda Kay, from early childhood to her 40s, with a realism completely free of condescension. Through Forbes's voice, we clearly understand the love her family has for this special child of God. R.P.L. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 01]