TIES THAT BIND, TIES THAT BREAK

Narrator Emily Woo Zeller inhabits her character wholly in this enlightening story of Ailin, a girl growing up in 1920s China. Zeller’s subdued, controlled voice conveys the societal rules, both spoken and unspoken, for women during this period. In high contrast is 9-year-old Ailin’s bold determination and defiance as she refuses to have her feet bound. Zeller’s varied tones provide a range of emotions expressed by family members—from her father’s understanding acceptance to her mother’s and uncle’s angry protests. Zeller’s restraint also highlights the outwardly calm obedience of Ailin’s sisters. Zeller’s young voice, smooth reading, and facile pronunciation of Chinese names further complement the story. M.F. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2013]