PIONEER SUMMER

Edoardo Ballerini's moving narration takes listeners to a 1980s Russian patriotic children's camp to meet sweet-natured 16-year-old counselor Yury and novice 19-year-old theater director Volodya. Well-rendered discussions of the countryside, food, regimented life--especially, the morning bugle--transport listeners to the cool lake and hot cabins. As the two diligently work together, Ballerini captures each man's reactions as each begins to feel an attraction that's both thrilling and horrifying. When Volodya and Yury bury a time capsule filled with camp memories--hoping to meet again--Ballerini expertly alternates their younger and older voices. It's heartbreaking to learn that it took 20 years for them to meet again at the decaying camp. Audio beautifully conveys an exceptional portrayal of Yury's and Volodya's evolving self-perceptions amid the homophobia of their surroundings. S.G.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2025]