The Carnival at Bray

In the mid-1990s, 16-year-old Maggie, from Chicago, finds herself in the midst of grunge rock, first love, and burgeoning independence. When Maggie's mother marries her Irish boyfriend, the family moves to Ireland. Narrator Erin Moon excels at giving heart to Maggie's journey and growth, especially as the teen takes off for Rome to hear the band Nirvana, a favorite of her beloved Uncle Kevin back home. Moon's expertise at a number of Irish brogues is a treat to hear, and she deftly illuminates the subtle cultural differences that Maggie must adjust to. The audiobook also stands out as Moon sings the songs of various characters, giving them depth and emotion through the music. This blast from the past is perfect for teens and adults. S.B.T. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine

November 1, 2015

Gr 9 Up-When 16-year-old Maggie's mother decides to marry someone she just met and move the family from Chicago to Ireland, Maggie is unsure what to expect. Leaving behind her beloved Uncle Kevin and grandmother, Maggie is slow to make friends in the rural town of Bray, though her eight-year-old sister quickly assimilates. Maggie finds refuge with a 99-year-old neighbor and falls for a boy who works in the local pub her mother and stepfather frequent. When Uncle Kevin suddenly dies, Maggie runs away in order to fulfill her uncle's dying bequest to attend a Nirvana concert in Rome. Music is a pervasive theme; it's 1993 and Kurt Cobain, Nirvana, and the grunge movement play key roles in the story. Erin Moon perfectly captures the lilting Irish dialects while clearly differentiating among voices. Portions of Irish folksongs are performed beautifully. VERDICT The themes of dysfunctional families, moving, first (and awful) sexual experiences, and rebellious music will resonate with teens. Give this to fans of This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales (Farrar, 2013). ["Promising debut": SLJ 9/14 review of the Elephant Rock book.]-Julie Paladino, formerly of East Chapel Hill High School, NC

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