WE THE CHILDREN

Andrew Clements excels at creating provocative stories that take place in realistic school settings, and narrator Keith Nobbs excels at bringing them to life. Here, sixth-grader Benjamin Pratt is entrusted with a gold coin and a mission—to save his school, which is to be torn down to make way for a theme park. Benjamin copes with much in this story, from having separated parents to exploring the mystery he inherits along with the gold coin. Nobbs skillfully highlights the boy’s emotions without overdramatizing them. He captures the tones and rhythms of middle school voices, distinguishing them clearly from the occasional adult voices. The lively centerpiece of the story is his insightful portrayal of Benjamin, a likable character who ensures listeners’ engagement with the story. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2010]