BLACKBIRD A Childhood Lost and Found

If this were a novel, many would think the author had a pessimistic imagination intent on stringing together a list of horribles in the life of a child. As a memoir, it is a sad reminder that life is not always kind, but it's also helpful to know during the progress of the story that the author has lived to tell about it. Although there are a few instances of sloppy editing with a sentence repeated and a bit of tedium in short bits of dialogue punctuated by attributions, these are no more than minor annoyances. Stephanie Roberts narrates with sensitivity and an even tone. Her characterizations of the maturing Jennifer, her surly and withdrawn brother, and the various adults who play major roles in the dynamics of this story are well considered and effective. J.E.M. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 02]