JOURNAL OF A UFO INVESTIGATOR

Socially awkward Danny Shapiro, age 14, is writing a novel about UFOs. His father is a brute, and his mother is dying. Danny has a crush on a beautiful girl, gets involved with a group of paranormal enthusiasts, stumbles across galaxies, and clashes with and is “probed” by aliens. What starts out as a brooding coming-of-age story veers sharply into over-the-top silliness. Sean Runnette brings what life he can to the principals, but David Halperin’s characters are empty and contrived—more set decoration than believable people. Also, Runnette doesn’t sound 14. He’s a wonderful reader, but the combination of adult voice and gloomy adolescent protagonist doesn’t work well. However, Runnette’s professional narration keeps the plot moving and will keep teenage sci-fi fans happy. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2011]