HALFWAY THERE A Graphic Memoir of Self-Discovery

Sara Matsui Colby is the main narrator of this audio adaptation of a graphic novel, and various narrators chime in as minor characters. Japanese-American author Christine Mari recounts her study abroad experience as a time of culture shock, depression, a feeling of lack of belonging, microaggressions, and, eventually, self-discovery. To supplement the lack of visuals, various audio techniques give the story the feel of a graphic novel. Music, vocal distortions, and soundboard clips create a cinematic experience but are somewhat uneven. Some background characters are too quiet to hear, and some sound effects are too loud. Colby, Chieko Hidaka, Alice Wen, and Siho Ellsmore are a sort of Greek chorus who step into an assortment of roles as needed. S.S. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2025]