STILL WATERS

This book continues the memoir begun in Blackbird, picking up with the 12- year-old who has been reclaimed by her parents' families. Blackbird, read by a professional reader, was striking in its tension between the almost incredible events and the indomitable spirit of the young Jennifer. In contrast, Lauck's own reading pulses with bitterness and anger. After her brother's suicide and her quest to understand him better, some of the anger seems to have been released; her tone softens and the underlying story is more present, the emotion a little less palpable. The story is compelling. The abridgment is bit choppy at first but after that not noticeable. J.E.M. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 02]