THE TRAITORS’ GATE

Avi’s admiration for Charles Dickens inspired this story of 14-year-old John Huffam. The listening adventure begins when John’s father is sent to debtors’ prison. Narrator John Keating’s performance is extraordinary. Every character (and there are lots) has a powerful, unique voice. Keating’s voice reflects John’s growth from trusting schoolboy to disillusioned young adult facing flawed people in a flawed world. With the arrogance of a “gentleman,” Pa has the genealogy but not the bankroll of the aristocracy. Mr. Tuckum, the bailiff, has the officious voice of a public servant who relishes his power to use the law to gain from the misfortunes of others. The author’s note gives fascinating insight into the history that inspired this story. N.E.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 07/ JAN 08]