ALL OUR SHIMMERING SKIES

Narrator Ruby Rees's animated voice captures the wonder in Dalton's novel of adventure, courage, and redemption in WWII Australia. Twelve-year-old Molly Hook lives a miserable life. She is abused by her cruel Uncle Aubrey and her distant father, who are plagued by alcoholism and intergenerational trauma. When Japanese bombs destroy their home, Molly and her unlikely band of companions--fierce actress Greta and Japanese pilot Yukio--set off to find Aboriginal elder Longcoat Bob, who Molly believes has cursed their family. Rees's outstanding characterizations bring out Aubrey's venom, Greta's insouciance, and Yukio's contemplative soul. Rees fully inhabits Molly, communicating her irrepressible joy and forgiving spirit in the face of unbearable tragedy. This magical and wholly engaging audiobook should not be missed. S.A.H. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2021]