THIS IS MY AMERICA

Bahni Turpin’s heartfelt narration highlights the determination of a family as they encounter the painful realities of the criminal justice system. Seventeen-year-old Tracy Beaumont’s father, an innocent man, has been sentenced to death, and although her family is exhausted with worry, they remain hopeful that the truth will come out. Then things go from bad to much worse when Tracy’s brother, Jamal, a track star, is accused of killing a white girl. Turpin is in her element as she narrates Tracy’s story, portraying her grief and fury as she confronts the deep-seated systemic racism and judicial inequities in her community. Turpin’s portrayal of Tracy shines with authenticity and depth, and other characterizations are equally well crafted, bringing out the tension, despair, and deep love that powers this all-too-timely story. S.A.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award, 2021 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2020]