STUCK

An animated full cast captures the whimsy and warmth in this story of a birthday wish gone horribly wrong. Eleven-year-old Jackson Raczkowski does not want to move up to middle school. He's happy in the fifth grade and wholeheartedly wishes that he didn't have to grow up. When his wish comes true and he doesn't age, he is initially thrilled, but 10 years later, he is desperate to move on. The varied cast ably portrays Jackson's friends and family, including his rascally grandfather; his best friend, Prisha; and his earnest but misguided teacher. Jackson, voiced by narrator Mark Sanderlin, is believably youthful, gently funny, and sincere. Some listeners may wish for more nuanced and less stereotypical depictions, but, overall, most will enjoy this entertaining and lighthearted listen. S.A.H. 2021 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2021]