PICTURE DAY Brinkley Yearbook, Book 1

Leading a full cast, Felisha Wong exudes brio in this story of a seventh grader who gives herself an impromptu picture-day haircut in hopes of standing out. Wong bubbles with convincingly clueless confidence as Viv neglects best friends Al--short for Alexandra--and Milo while bullheadedly pursuing her "truth." Em Grosland and Davu Smith shine in these supporting roles, their voices sagging with disappointment at Viv's inattention. In the print edition, Sarah Sax's panels reveal that Viv, Milo, and many of their classmates are kids of color; their diversity does not come through in this audio adaptation. Gender diversity not explicit on the page, however, emerges in the thoughtful casting of trans actor Grosland as Al. A sweet take on the ups and downs of middle school. V.S. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2023]