JUPITER RISING written by Gary Schmdit, audio read by Christopher Gebauer

Christopher Gebauer read Gary Schmidt’s tragic prequel ORBITING RISING and now narrates JUPITER RISING, its companion in the unique style of eighth-grader Jack. Gebauer’s initial tone greets listeners with the silliness of three-year-old Jupiter and cheer of Jack’s family who is soon to adopt her. Gebauer fully appreciates Schmidt’s story’s rhythms, the picture he draws of the warmth of this close loving family. It’s understandable that Jack’s can accept, albeit reticently a running relationship with a former tormentor. But Gary Schmidt can’t keep sorrow from this family Gebauer represents Jack’s alternating rage and grief as the adoption is challenged by Jupiter’s grandparents, then he’s also threatened with another significant loss. Gebauer’s adults are fully-realized, whether Jack’s caustic but caring coach or the domineering grandfather with a broken heart. Sequential listening or reading will allow fans to appreciate how they build and show Jack’s astounding growth. I listened, I read, I listened again and it was hard to pull myself away from the convincing community and characters Schmidt creates. Find out more about the book and audio at the purchase link below.