HELLO, UNIVERSE

Ramon de Ocampo and Amielynn Abellera narrate this charming story, told from four points of view. We meet shy Virgil, brave Valencia, bullying Chet, and fortune-telling Kaori, whose middle school lives fatefully intersect one summer day. De Ocampo perfectly captures Virgil’s painful timidity—and just as easily brings to life Lola, Virgil’s wise, sassy Filipino grandmother, who encourages Virgil to find his inner bayani (hero). Abellera’s portrayal of fearless Valencia (“my name could lead people into battle”) is especially fine. Valencia happens to be deaf, and secretly lonely; Abellera nails her prickly but lively way of seeing the world. This especially engaging and sensitive production fully accesses the story’s keen perceptions on courage, fate, and friendship. J.C.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2017]