LOVE RADIO

Dual narration makes clear the initial friction and then the growing attraction between two African-American teens. Joniece Abbott-Pratt portrays Danielle Ford, a blocked writer and booklover who dreams of college in New York. Abbott-Pratt helps listeners experience Dani’s sassiness, perseverance, and continued feelings of trauma from a past sexual assault. In alternating chapters, JaQwan Kelly captures the genuine and generous nature of Prince Jones, who is far more than what he appears to be—the local celebrity DJ who dispenses love advice. Kelly allows listeners to hear Prince’s conflicted heart as he struggles with caring for his mother and younger brother and fulfilling his own desire for Dani and his future. Because of their excellent portrayals, listeners grasp the truths, needs, and caring that lie below the playful flirting of both characters. S.W. 2023 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2022]