THE LEOPARD IS LOOSE

Avuncular, husky-voiced George Guidall as the 5-year-old narrator of this audiobook seems an unusual choice--until you hear his engaging performance. In 1950, a leopard escaped from the Oklahoma zoo. Through adult Grady McClarty's remembrances of that day, we see the world through his 5-year-old eyes. Guidall miraculously disappears. He conveys Grady's and his 6-year-old brother Danny's confusion about what's going on around them, especially the bad behavior of their two uncles, WWII vets with PTSD. The leopard's escape launches a disorganized hunt full of Oklahomans with guns. Thanks to Guidall, Grady's memories are touchingly honest, innocent without being precious. Harrigan's perceptive writing encompasses a loving family, systemic racism, the consequences of war, and the mysteries of childhood. Guidall's sensitive performance makes this a memorable audiobook. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2022]