cover image Hattie Ever After

Hattie Ever After

Kirby Larson, read by Kirsten Potter. Listening Library, unabridged, five CDs, 5.75 hrs., $30 ISBN 978-0-449-01524-7

This sequel to Hattie Big Sky, set in the early 20th century, sees young Hattie taking a chance and traveling to San Francisco to follow her dream of becoming a newspaper reporter. In doing so, she struggles both with her heart—because it means leaving behind the man who wants to marry her—and with the difficulty of proving herself in a field dominated by men. Kristen Potter ably portrays Hattie, conveying her emotions—particularly her terror when she takes a wild ride in a small plane, and her pain when a friend betrays her trust. Potter also creates character-distinctive voices, such as a cleaning woman’s Irish lilt and a detective’s French accent. Fans of the previous installment will enjoy Hattie’s further adventures, as will anyone interested in getting a glimpse at life in the early 20th century. Ages 10–up. A Delacorte hardcover. (Feb.)