A KIND OF SPARK

Glasgow-born Katy Townsend delivers a powerful narration of this story told from the point of view of an autistic girl. When 11-year-old Addie and her sister, Keedie, learn that women were wrongfully accused of being witches and killed in their village years ago, they suspect that the women were probably neurodivergent--like them. They appeal to the village council to set up a memorial to acknowledge this tragic error. Townsend's authentic Scottish accent brings this empowering book alive. Characters are delicately nuanced and consistent throughout, with a few less believable male voices. Addie has a whispery, even-keeled tone--until her confrontation with Emily and her teacher, when she burns with anger at their actions and attitudes. An enlightening, insightful performance. S.D.B. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2022]