Audio of the Week:
Lockie Leonard: Human Torpedo

From SLJ August 2004

Jo-Ann Carhart, East Islip Public Library, NY -- School Library Journal, 8/13/2004

(unabr.). 3 cassettes or 3 CDs. 3 hrs. Bolinda Publishing. 2004. cassette: ISBN 1-86442-2317-X, CD: ISBN 1-74030-597-3. $28.

-Tim Winton's coming-of-age novel (Little, Brown, 1991) is relevant, funny, and touching. Lockie Leonard's family has moved from Perth to the East Coast of Australia. He has just turned 13 and must start a new school. Although he's a good surfer, he doesn't think he has much else going for him. His father is a pacifist cop, his brother wets the bed, and he lives in a less desirable section of town. Lockie hits the jackpot when cute, smart, popular, and well-off Vicki takes a liking to him. They quickly become an item, and Lockie is suddenly popular. When things start moving too fast, Lockie's need to slow it down causes Vicki to become bored with the relationship. With the help of time and his empathetic parents, he comes to terms with loosing both Vicki and his popularity. Winton has tapped into the angst of young teen boys, and listeners will identify with Lockie. Librarians should be aware that use of the Australian vernacular is pervasive, and there is sexual content (make-out sessions and wet dreams). Stig Wemyss, an actor in both Australia and the U. S., narrates with great energy and enthusiasm, capturing the voices of all of the characters. Catchy musical interludes between chapters add a nice touch. Those who enjoy surfing and coming-of-ages stories or are Tim Winton fans might enjoy this audiobook.