THE CENTER OF EVERYTHING

Narrator Suzy Jackson offers a sparkling portrayal of 12-year-old Ruby Pepperdine. Ruby is upset about events surrounding her grandmother, Gigi's, recent death, especially their last conversation. As a result, Ruby becomes even more preoccupied with rituals and superstitions as she hones her intuitive skills so that she can finally understand what Gigi was trying to tell her. Jackson's youthful voice is perfect for the voices of Ruby and her diverse group of friends. As Gigi, she sounds appropriately elderly and desperate to make sure her gifts have been passed on to her granddaugher. While Jackson's lively pacing conveys Ruby's inquisitive and enthusiastic nature, she modulates both her tone and pace dramatically to reveal Ruby's introspective side in this tender story. M.F. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2014]