FICTION

The Reckoning

by Wade Hudson (text) & narrated by Guy Lockard
Listening Library. Jan. 2024. 517p. $18. ISBN 9780593795569.
COPY ISBN
Gr 3-7–Ebulliently versatile Lockard performs the transformative emotional journey necessary in Hudson’s all-too-real contemporary fiction. At 12, Lamar already knows he wants to be a filmmaker like his idol Spike Lee. His gramps would make an ideal documentary subject: “It took me a while . . . to get my bearings back after your grandmother made her transition,” he tells Lamar, but now he’s ready to share his—and their Louisiana small town’s—civil rights history. Just as Lamar’s “getting to really know him,” Gramps is shot during a traffic incident by a white man with links to the KKK who claims self-defense, and who’s supported by the collusion of racist police. Lamar plays a key role in exposing systemic injustice and exposing the murderer.
VERDICT Despite the potential roadblocks of anger, frustration, fear, Lockard ensures the rallying demand of “do the right thing” is clearly, inspiringly, definitively heard.
Reviewed by Terry Hong , Jan 01, 2024

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Maddie and Mabel Ready for Snow
by Allen, Kari
BOOKS

Welcome to the Woofmore
by Gephart, Donna & Lori Haskins Houran
BOOKS

Eleven Houses
by Oakes, Colleen
BOOKS

Don’t Let the Forest In
by Drews, CG
BOOKS

Summer Nights and Meteorites
by Reynolds, Hannah
BOOKS

A Vile Season
by Ferraro, David
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?