AQUARIUM

Julia Whelan's straightforward narration of Vann's dramatic story is terrifying and powerful. Caitlin lives in Seattle with her single mother, who struggles to keep a roof over their heads. Caitlin visits the aquarium daily and befriends an elderly man there. This meeting violently changes the course of Caitlin's life--and her mother's. Be warned: This novel IS violent. And stunning. There's no rush to the story or to Whelan's narration. Her characters are persuasive and robust. Whelan sounds perfect as a 12-year-old girl--curious, cautious at times and bold at others. As Whelan bravely faces the text, listeners may flinch, but she remains solid and smooth. G.D. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2015]