A CORNER OF THE UNIVERSE

The author's comments at the end of this audiobook confirm the personal connection she has with this story of families and tolerance, but listeners have no doubt in the honesty of 11-year-old Hattie Owen. Steeped in a 1950s setting, adults will especially enjoy the fine cultural details and children will easily grasp the different pace and manners of the time, and Hattie's small town life. Judith Ivey is exceptional--conveying striking emotional and compassionate power. Ivey's portrait of Adam, Hattie's disabled, savant uncle who suddenly reenters the family's life, is nothing short of brilliant. His accelerated, charged speech, and rhythmic then agitated tone and timbre is masterfully handled. Ivey masters the dialogue, mimicking "I Love Lucy" shows and making obtuse connections, giving listeners an involving glimpse into Adam's corner of the universe. R.F.W. Winner of 2004 ALA Notable Recording, 2004 Audie Award Finalist (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 03]