A ROOM OF MY OWN

The Depression and its effects on a small town in Minnesota are described by 13-year-old Virginia Eade, whose extended family has moved in, taking over her room. Forbes brings Virginia and her family to life, drawing the listener into the ethical dilemmas of Doc Eade and his treatment of the hobos in the local "Hoover town" of Sioux City, as well as the economic struggles of union and communist organizers, which characterize this era. As Virginia matures, Forbes deepens her vocal characterization and personality, and her emotional involvement in the story grows. Tatlock and Forbes create a pastiche of the era, which is educational and inspirational. M.B.K. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/JAN 00]