ONE-HANDED CATCH

When 11-year-old Norm loses his hand in a meat grinder, life becomes a series of challenges. Norm's dream of playing baseball seems impossible. Spurred on by his mother and his friend Leon, Norm meets every obstacle with grit and ingenuity. This full-cast audiobook enlivens Norm's family-friendly story, set in the 1940s. Ryan Sparkes captures Norm's myriad emotions in a clear, precise delivery, and his voice is appealing. Secondary characters are equally strong. Listeners will feel this story is immediate and heartfelt, but never sappy. Jazzy music sets the tone for each episode in Norm's life. Also included is an interview with the author and her husband, Herm, whose story inspired the character of Norm. C.A. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award, 2009 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2008]