KING OF THE NEURO VERSE

Tune your ear to a rap beat and prepare for a great listen. It's 1999, and Pernell, a failing high school student, uses a pen recorder to capture his thoughts for posterity in case the Y2K hysteria is true and civilization collapses. Author and narrator Idris Goodwin showcases the personalities of Pernell's caring parents and friends, as well as an antagonistic teacher, through tone. Sometimes it takes a few seconds to determine who's speaking, but Goodwin's approach definitely works. Pernell is thoroughly likable. He's smart but often derailed by ADHD. Rapping is his thing. He records his triumphs and struggles, including his attempts to be the Cypher King of summer school. Listeners will find that his sincerity and occasional self-doubts ring true. L.T. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2025]