THE EYES AND THE IMPOSSIBLE

Ethan Hawke delivers a spectacular performance of Dave Eggers's 2024 Newbery Medal-winning middle-grade animal story in which Eggers assures us, ". . . the dogs are dogs, the birds are birds, goats are goats, the bison bison." Hawke is more than up to the task of interpreting the rich, complex language describing creatures who, along with three penned bison, maintain the equilibrium of a wooded park bordering the sea. Through his judicious use of inflection, accent, and pacing, Hawke creates convincing voices for all the animals, saving his most authentic voice for Johannes, doggiest of dogs, fastest of the fast, "the eyes" of the park. This outstanding combination of extraordinary writing and exceptional narration makes for a remarkable family listening experience. S.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2024]