GIRL (NEARLY 16): ABSOLUTE TORTURE

Katherine Kellgren's comedic timing is spot-on in her portrayal of a (nearly) 16-year-old English girl who wishes to someday be a stand-up comedian. Jess Jordan finds herself on holiday with her staid mother, despite her plans to spend the summer with her boyfriend. From this misadventure comes a sweet and touching story of a family coming together. Jess finds common ground with her mother, discovers the truth about her father, and watches her grandmother heal from tragedy. The underlying warmth of this coming-of-age story is reflected in Kellgren's tone, and the listener can hear the smiles shared by all at the end. M.R.P. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 06]