SO MUCH TO TELL YOU

Marina hasn't spoken since the tragic, life-altering event that left her face scarred. Now at boarding school, she must keep a journal for English class. John Marsden's writing is artful without being self-conscious. With consummate skill, he has Marina record the events around her and, through them, reveal herself. Kate Hosking's voice is older, deeper than we'd expect from a 14-year-old, but her matter-of-fact delivery of painful facts keeps the focus on the story, and her interpretation of Marina embodies every bit of the damaged teenager. Marina writes the truth as she sees it, including letters from her emotionally unavailable mother, and listeners will find themselves rooting for her as she struggles from her silent world. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 06]