THE MAILBOX

Vernon Culligan, dead since Chapter One, is the most vivid voice in this story as his orphaned nephew, Gabe, seeks to deal with his uncle's sudden death, the disappearance of his body, and odd supportive notes from him that keep appearing in the mailbox. Vernon, a reclusive Vietnam vet, has left a bequest of cranky homespun sayings that guide Gabe through his early days in sixth grade and his housework on the isolated farm where he lives. Nick Landrum imbues Gabe, his classmates, teachers, and other adults with individuality and character, especially the sharp-voiced sheriff who tries to sort out the uncle's death. Landrum's matter-of-fact narration through Gabe's eyes makes the boy's fate the listener's primary concern. D.P.D. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 07/ JAN 08]