Audio Pick—Bronx Masquerade (unabr.)
From SLJ December 2006
Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT -- School Library Journal, 12/4/2006
3 cassettes. 3:15 hrs. Recorded Books (recordedbooks.com). 2006. ISBN 1-4193-9475-4 $29.75.
Gr 8 Up–Nikki Grimes's novel (Dial, 2001), a multifaceted look at life in a New York high school, is powerfully narrated by a talented cast. It presents an array of authentic inner-city teens inspired by one student's poetic response to the Harlem Renaissance. Soon everyone in class is volunteering to share their poetry during weekly "Open Mike" sessions. Characters first express their thoughts and then present their raps and rhymes as the story peels away the masks students often hide behind. Though the teens range from a basketball player who hides his intelligence to an Italian girl who changes her name in an attempt at racial solidarity, these unique characters also have a universal voice that will be recognizable to listeners. By using a cast of ten veteran narrators, the recording enhances the personality of each student. This Coretta Scott King award-winning novel offers numerous avenues to encourage young poets and may even promote more honest communication among teens.In the words of one teen in the novel, "You can say anything, as long as it's a poem." An important addition to audio collections in middle school, high school, and public libraries.
