From the Publisher
Praise for the Novels of Irene Hunt
“A deeply affecting, affirmative story.”—Booklist
“A powerfully moving story.”—Chicago Daily News
“An intriguing and beautifully written book, a prize to those who take the time to read it, whatever their ages.”—The New York Times
“This is a beautifully written book, filled with bloodshed, hate, and tears, but also with love, loyalty, and compassion, with unforgettable characters, and with ideas and implications that have meaning for young people today.”—Chicago Tribune
MAY 2012 - AudioFile
Charlie Thurston beautifully narrates this story of 15-year-old Josh and his little brother, Joey, who leave a hungry home in the midst of the Great Depression, armed only with musical talent and pride. Thurston’s voice is plastic; it twists and stretches, shaping lively gangsters, caring carnies, and quiet friends with seeming effortlessness. His performance adds a great deal to this simple narrative. Thurston’s pacing and vocal anguish help listeners connect with the boys despite a writing style that keeps the characters’ suffering at arm’s length. The story is perhaps a bit romanticized—pride and reluctance to accept charity are at the heart of Josh’s struggle. It shames him to beg for food to keep himself and his brother alive. A.M.P © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine
