SHELTERWOOD

Jenna Lamia and Christine Lakin deliver alternating chapters of this historical novel based on true events in the mountains of Oklahoma. Lamia portrays 11-year-old Olive, who in 1909 flees her abusive stepfather to find shelter deep in the mountains. Lamia's young-sounding voice is well suited to depict Olive's scrappy determination when she joins forces with the "elf children," orphans on their own who are barely surviving in the woods. Valerie, portrayed by Lakin, is a ranger with the National Park Service in 1990, who is unwilling to overlook the discovery of the old bones of children. Lakin portrays Valerie's guarded resolve as she pursues information despite being pressured not to by locals. Lakin also shines in her portrayal of a handsome officer from the Choctaw Nation. N.M.C. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2024]