Lu

Exuding attitude with every syllable, narrator Guy Lockard brings the Track series across the finish line with this concluding volume. Lu is the fast, flashy "fine-o albino" co-captain of the Defenders track team. But lately he's been stumbling over hurdles both on and off the track. As Lu's understanding of family and integrity deepen, Lockard's energetic narration conveys the character's insecurity as well as his histrionic swagger. Similarly, Lockard makes each supporting character distinct, though the clear standout is Coach, who's all verve and emphatic enunciation. It's an altogether winning performance--"for real for real," as Lu would say--and a fitting conclusion to a series that will resonate with young listeners for years to come. R.A.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine