LIGHT FROM A DISTANT STAR

This coming-of-age story of 13-year-old Nellie Peck is deftly read by Amy Rubinate. An observant yet innocent listener and watcher, Nellie is portrayed with a young-sounding voice yet a mature pace and tone. Only occasionally does Rubinate convey the erratic emotions of the teen as she deals with the ups and downs of her summer, including her first crush, her fears over her parents’ marriage and financial woes, sibling rivalry, and a murder and subsequent trial. While the story is seen through Nellie’s eyes as she struggles to find her voice in the world, Rubinate also does a wonderful job of making the supporting characters come to life, including the breathy and bubbly Dolly and the gruff but likable Max, two characters whose voices reflect their dual natures. E.N. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2012]