THE YEAR OF BILLY MILLER

Narrator Dan Bittner's youthful sounding voice and subtle style fit this story about 7-year-old Billy Miller. Author Kevin Henkes has written a gentle, low-key chapter book about a boy's emotions as he faces everyday problems. Will Billy's second-grade teacher think he's smart enough? Will his "Papa" be hurt if Billy calls him "Dad"? Is Billy brave enough to read his poem in front of an audience? The stories are sweet and sometimes deeply touching (especially for an adult listener). The intelligent writing uses some sophisticated vocabulary and dramatizes some complex emotional concepts. Bittner reads effortlessly and with enthusiasm, complementing the charming story. M.M.G. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2013]