CAGE OF STARS

Veronica Swann is 12 when her younger sisters are murdered. This horrible event never leaves her and her parents, but when the killer is released years later, her parents are able to forgive. Veronica’s inability to do so will lead her on a surprising journey. Narrating this first-person novel with empathy and sensitivity, Kathe Mazur captures the right emotional pitch throughout--from the pain of the event to the joys and triumphs of Ronnie’s progress toward adulthood. Mazur’s depiction of the other characters--Ronnie’s parents, her friends (male and female), and Scott Early, her sisters’ killer--are all convincing and compelling. Mitchard’s ability to explore the dynamics of a family affected by tragedy, coupled with Mazur’s expertly nuanced narration, makes this a winning production. M.A.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 06/ JAN 07]