FICTION

Flipping Forward Twisting Backward

by Alma Fullerton (text) & narrated by Erin Ruth Walker
Listening Library. Jul. 2023. 125p. $8. ISBN 9780593740156.
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Gr 3-7–Fifth grader Claire excels in flips and twists, a talented gymnast destined to “make it/ all the way to the state championships.” She’s also one of 12 Claires at school, but the vice principal always knows that she’s the one waiting to see him. Her teacher, Mrs. Rose, sees “Claire can/ cause a stir at times/ [but] she has a very kind heart.” As exasperating as their relationship is, Mrs. Rose is Claire’s unlikely champion who recognizes the reasons for Claire’s unruly behavior and learning frustrations. Fullerton’s author bio (not included in the audio, alas) reveals her own dyslexia and the teacher who helped. Her latest verse novel (and first to go aural!) is crisply narrated by Walker, whose perfect enunciation boosts every lyrical word.
VERDICT Libraries, take note: audiobooks get a specific shoutout from Claire, more reason to enable other readers like her.
Reviewed by Terry Hong , Oct 01, 2023

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