ALMOST HOME

Bauer has hit a home run with Sugar Mae Cole, who—in spite of homelessness and her mother’s breakdown—meets life’s challenges with grit and determination. Narrator Brittany Pressley gives mom Reba the accent of a Southern belle, with a hint of grit even at her lowest points. When Sugar quotes words of wisdom from grandfather King Cole, Pressley’s gravelly voice reflects the experiences of a life well lived. As Sugar struggles to maintain her natural sense of gratitude and optimism, Pressley’s tone sounds slightly fearful yet amazingly confident and kind. Thanks to her teacher, the extraordinary Mr. Bennett, whose support supplies another lifeline, and Shush, a special dog with a calling, Sugar overcomes overwhelming odds and sadness. N.E.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2017]