A Spy Called James

James, an enslaved man who took the surname Lafayette, thanks to his wartime benefactor, served as a double agent for Washington's army during the American Revolution and then was returned to slavery. Narrator Rodney Gardiner, in a confident, deep voice, delivers Anne Rockwell's spare text with respect and authenticity. Brief gaps correspond with page turns, inviting listeners to examine the illustrated book. Background sound effects--countryside songbirds, tramping feet in army encampments--are unobtrusive but sometimes seem superfluous. The most confusing element of the production is the placement of the author's note. The background information on James is important and interesting--but on the recording is situated after the closing credits, which to most listeners signify the end of the audiobook. C.M.A. � AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine