THE REFORMATORY

Joniece Abbott-Pratt masterfully re-creates a 1950s Florida reformatory in this story based on a relative of author Tananarive Due and other actual people and events. Listeners meet 12-year-old Robbie Stephens, Jr., and Gloria, his 16-year-old sister, after Robbie is arrested for defending her from a white boy. While in the segregated reform school, Robbie experiences and witnesses unfathomable punishment for tiny infractions. As Gloria attempts to free him, Abbott-Pratt's finest creations emerge: 83-year-old Miss Lottie and her ancient pickup truck. Abbott-Pratt expertly portrays the story's crushing atmosphere, as well as fearless Gloria, terrified boys, and, most movingly, the "haints"--ghosts of dead boys--who assist Robbie with his escape. Although painful, this is essential listening about a shameful blot on American history. S.G.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2023]