Trailblazer

Using an understated conversational style, narrator January LaVoy performs journalist Gilliam's memoir, which covers both the trajectory of her professional life and the story of a country experiencing the turmoil of change. Gilliam's journey from pastor's daughter with a narrow future to first black female reporter and columnist for the WASHINGTON POST spanned the Civil Rights and Women's Movements, allowing her a front-row seat at some of the nation's most significant turning points. LaVoy's soft, clear voice narrows the space between listener and author, and her fluid, expressive delivery expertly conveys Gilliam's emotions--from her determination to attend journalism school to her hurt and frustration in the face of segregation to her pride at becoming a columnist and her empathy for young people of color who are still struggling for equality. C.B.L. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine