THIS IS THE ROPE

Narrator Channie Waites celebrates hope with her narration of this moving story, which introduces listeners to a multigenerational family who participate in the Great Migration of African-Americans. Whether sounding serious, shy, or jubilant, Waites captures the feelings of the extended family in this story as they pack up and move from their beloved pine-scented South to pursue dreams of financial and personal freedom in the North. Her characterization of individual voices—from elderly grandfather to jump-roping girl—are especially wonderful, complementing the book’s fine illustrations. The musical background adds playful texture while suggesting a chronological progression through the years. This top-notch production includes a thoughtful author’s note, read by Woodson. J.C.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2015]