THIS TOWN SLEEPS

Ojibwa author Dennis Staples's first novel introduces Marion, a young Ojibwa man who has left the res but is often drawn back, searching for his identity and purpose. A mix of family history, mystery, and cultural exploration is unevenly brought to life by narrator Kaipo Schwab. Telling the story in the voice of Marion, Schwab gives listeners the feeling of connecting with this young man who is searching for his place in his world. However, the large cast of characters from the past and present are difficult to keep straight. Schwab's voice is pleasing to listen to, but the lack of vocal differentiation makes it difficult to keep the characters straight. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2020]