EXTRA CREDIT

This intercultural story of pen pals introduces us to two young people: Abby, who needs to address her lack of interest in school by completing a letter-writing project, and Sadeed, who’s helping out his sister, who has less education than he. Gabra Zackman’s thoughtful portrayal of Abby and Sadeed’s exchanges demonstrates how each character comes to think differently about the world, and it will encourage young listeners to do so, too. Her smooth voice is particularly easy on the ears, and she handily depicts a broad range of characters of diverse ages and cultures. As she quietly depicts each child’s life, thoughts, and letters, Zackman allows listeners to draw their own insights about culture, gender, and personal values, including the question of what an education is worth. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2010]