MELISSA

Everyone else thinks she’s a boy named George, but 10-year-old Melissa knows she’s a girl. When her fourth-grade class puts on a play of CHARLOTTE’S WEB, what Melissa wants more than anything is to play Charlotte. Narrator Jamie Clayton's voice is distinctive, though not necessarily young, but she infuses her delivery with a childlike enthusiasm that fits this middle-grade story. The fact that Clayton (from Netflix’s “Sense8”) is a trans woman adds authenticity as Melissa struggles with the choice to keep, or share, her secret. Occasional clunky writing doesn't detract from the importance of this book, which is sure to spark discussion, recognition, and understanding. Maybe most important of all, the book has plenty of heart, and listeners of all ages will be rooting for Melissa the whole time. J.M.D. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2015]