MOUNTAIN UPSIDE DOWN

In a youthful voice, Elena Rey introduces an Oregon school and library that are in danger of shutting down. Listeners meet bright, empathic 13-year-old Alex and her beloved grandmother, a retired librarian she's lived with since her mother's death. Rey's scenes of library staff, patrons, and youth council kids are delightfully rendered. Listeners are privy to Alex's nervous confession of her feelings for her friend, champion swimmer PJ, and their budding romance. The teens are heartbroken when PJ's mom's move sends him to a different school. Rey portrays Alex's success in coping with challenges, especially when her grandmother is diagnosed with dementia. Depictions of aging, sexuality, and blended families, along with lighthearted wordplay, make this a memorable audiobook for listeners of all ages. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2025]