The Favorite

As an audiobook editor, I was impressed by the sheer energy and verve of Gordon Korman's narration, which perfectly captures the humor and heart of this story. The narrator's ability to differentiate between the four Coleridge siblings is no small feat – Harper, Dylan, Lacey, and Bobby each leap off the page with distinct personalities and quirks. Where the story falters slightly is in its pacing, which occasionally feels rushed, particularly in the final act. Still, this is a minor quibble in what is otherwise a wildly entertaining ride. I particularly enjoyed the way the narrator brought the supporting cast to life – Mr. and Mrs. Coleridge, the kids' bumbling (and lovable) parents, are equally well-realized and add a welcome layer of depth to the story.