THE WEIGHT OF BLOOD

Versatile narrators effectively differentiate interwoven characters’ perspectives in this retelling of Stephen King’s CARRIE, made more horrific by its theme of racism. Maddy (Carrie redux), a timid biracial teen who is bullied at school, has secret psychic powers that explode on prom night. As a broadcast reporter, portrayed by Christopher Salazar, tracks the facts of what happened, his neutrality is challenged by his British cohost, portrayed by Sarah Mollo-Christensen. Mollo-Christensen also portrays the spoiled Jules, who manipulates prejudice to her advantage. JD Jackson captures African American Kenny’s easygoing temperament. His personality contrasts with that of his white girlfriend, Wendy, as Joy Nash delivers the driven girl’s determination to look good. Karen Malina White expresses the torment of Maddy. Collectively, the narrators ensure that the story is clear and captivating. S.W. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award, 2022 Best Audiobook © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2022]