MAY 2018 - AudioFile
Three narrators blend seamlessly to present a story that switches time, locale, and voice frequently. After stealing a book, young Sunny Arkinsky, portrayed by Dara Rosenberg, is “sentenced” to work in the Robbers Library. Sunny’s disposition enlivens the small, struggling library and the life of librarian Kit Sweeney, portrayed by Allyson Ryan. Most appealing are meeting the library’s regulars and hearing insider gossip. Ryan’s and Rosenberg’s performances are deftly enhanced by third narrator Josh Bloomberg’s winning storytelling. Diverse characters and personalities—many eccentric—add to the listening experience. The story centers on Ryan’s prickly Sweeney, who is beaten down by life and content in her isolation. Chatty Sunny and her uninhibited views make her the consummate change agent. This genial audiobook is also a love story about libraries, readers, and books. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine
Maggie Gyllenhaal
Summer Hours at The Robbers Library is whip-smart, funny and moving all at once. A rare combination.
Julia Alvarez
This novel presents a full cast of intriguing, complex characters and a heart-warming message about how our losses are often what allow us to connect with each other.
Marilyn Johnson
Sometimes the best stories in the library aren’t found on its shelves; they’re walking through its doors and congregating by the reference desk. Sue Halpern knows this and mines the setting for comic and tragicomic gold.
Donna Seaman
Finely choreographed and lucidly told, Halpern infuses this tale of derailments and second chances with free-ranging empathy, lithe humor, and penetrating insights into the human psyche. [Halpern is] a discerning and sensitive novelist.
MAY 2018 - AudioFile
Three narrators blend seamlessly to present a story that switches time, locale, and voice frequently. After stealing a book, young Sunny Arkinsky, portrayed by Dara Rosenberg, is “sentenced” to work in the Robbers Library. Sunny’s disposition enlivens the small, struggling library and the life of librarian Kit Sweeney, portrayed by Allyson Ryan. Most appealing are meeting the library’s regulars and hearing insider gossip. Ryan’s and Rosenberg’s performances are deftly enhanced by third narrator Josh Bloomberg’s winning storytelling. Diverse characters and personalities—many eccentric—add to the listening experience. The story centers on Ryan’s prickly Sweeney, who is beaten down by life and content in her isolation. Chatty Sunny and her uninhibited views make her the consummate change agent. This genial audiobook is also a love story about libraries, readers, and books. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine