THE LINDEN TREE

In the year after her mother dies, Katy Sue's life changes, and so does she. Marguerite Gavin captures the 11-year-old's poignant thoughts and memories in a melodic and thoughtful presentation. Soliloquies are especially well done—the listener hears Katy Sue processing not only the death of her mother, but also the effect of that loss on her sister, brother, and father. Gavin crafts her portrayal of each character, giving voice and emotion to each family member as well as to townsfolk and friends. Katy Sue's realization that life does indeed go on after the loss of a loved one is rewarded with a different kind of happiness. D.L.M. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]