THE NEW DAVID ESPINOZA

Narrator Christian Barillas delivers an intense performance in this #OwnVoices audiobook. After a video of David Espinoza getting slapped down by a bully goes viral, he vows to do whatever it takes to get stronger. Frustrated with his slow progress and skinniness, he turns to steroids in pursuit of his ideal body. Barillas commands the listener's attention as David experiences bouts of rage, pain from his injections, and the relentless thoughts that come with never being satisfied. Barillas's Spanish lilt and vocal range create distinct voices for a variety of characters--from the rough grunts of bodybuilders to the youthful cheer of David's younger sister. This audiobook is unflinching in its examination of male body dysmorphia and the costs of steroid abuse. A.K.R. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2020]