I Am Lavina Cumming

Sent to live with her aunt in Santa Cruz, 10-year-old Lavina finds daily adventures await her, including the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Barbara Caruso reads Lavina's long narratives, as well as provides voices for the story's other characters. Her pleasing voice readily meets the challenge of performing the different ages and cultural backgrounds of the numerous female parts. Her performance of male voices, while individualistic, is not as strongly rendered. Caruso gives her liveliest and most enjoyable performance as Bridgette, the Irish maid, radiating the character's naturally warm disposition and love of fun. Captivating historical fiction story for younger and older listeners alike. P.A.J. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine