WINNIE, DANCING ON HER OWN

Third-grader Winnie is a delightful character in this charming chapter book, which captures the joys and tribulations of navigating close friendships while maintaining a sense of individuality. As narrator, Laura Hamilton does a great job centering the story in a young girl's experience and tone, though she's equally capable of depicting adults, such as Winnie's dad and her dance teacher. Hamilton's matter-of-fact narration allows listeners room for their own reactions to both funny and painful moments. She ably conveys Winnie's pleasure as well as her hurt feelings without overdoing them. Sound effects like double and triple girls' voices (when two or three friends say rhymes together) add fun touches to an excellent production. J.C.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2009]