I AM NOT ALONE

Narrators Christian Barillas and Gail Shalan believably voice two teens who are trying to navigate their worlds while wanting more from their lives. Alberto, portrayed by Barillas, is an 18-year-old undocumented Mexican immigrant with an undiagnosed mental illness. He often hears a voice berating him and encouraging negative behavior. Shalan portrays Grace, a Jewish high school senior from a privileged background. Alberto and Grace form an immediate bond. Alberto's circumstances make him vulnerable, and he's accused of murder. Grace is certain of his innocence and attempts to prove it. Barillas and Shalan narrate alternating chapters, infusing their performances with emotion and urgency. Both effectively use accents for various characters and Spanish when necessary. A sound effect, doubling Barillas's voice, effectively suggests Alberto's voices. A.M. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2023]