From School Library Journal
Grade 5-8-The Silent Boy (HM, 2003) by Lois Lowry (The Giver, Number the Stars) recounts the early 20th century childhood of Katy Thatcher and her special relationship with an autistic boy. Lowry subtly recreates the lifestyle, customs, and attitudes of the time period, weaving well-researched details seamlessly into the narrative. Told as a flashback by an elderly Katy, this poignant work of historical fiction is read superbly by actress Karen Allen (Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Perfect Storm). Her gravelly yet soothing voice perfectly suits the elderly Katy Thatcher. Allen captures the playful innocence of young Katy, the patience of her deep-voiced father, and the quiet strength of her mother, while her voice is weighted by years of sorrow. There are a handful of awkward moments in the flow of the reading, but not enough to detract from the story. Background music plays at the close of the final chapter. The overall aural quality is excellent. Middle school girls will especially appreciate this insightful and compelling audiobook. While well-handled, the tragic ending may upset younger or more sensitive listeners.
Leigh Ann Rumsey, Penn Yan Academy, NYCopyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From AudioFile
A book for young people with an oddly adult spin, THE SILENT BOY revolves around Katy Thatcher's reminiscence of her early years. The privileged daughter of the town doctor, she observes the intersection between that life of privilege and the working-class realities of her family's hired girls. The story also examines Katy's relationship with Jacob, the silent boy, regarded by most as "touched," and the tragic consequences brought about by the mores of the time. Karen Allen's sturdy reading features a measured pace and a quiet tone with an appropriately old-time feel. Her unvoiced narration effectively suggests an old woman looking back upon her earlier life. The adult perspective makes this an audiobook that may appeal more to grown-ups than to young people. S.G. © AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine--
Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
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