A Thousand Never Evers.

In 1963, the summer before seventh grade, Addie Ann Picket’s world changes. Her uncle is accused of destroying a community garden in tiny Kuckachoo, Mississippi, setting off a chain of events that culminates in a courtroom drama where Addie Ann saves the day. Brome’s first-person narration brims with heart, bringing Addie Ann’s fears (is her older brother still alive?) and dreams (maybe, just maybe, Cool Breeze will kiss her on their walk to school) vividly into focus. The large cast of characters is easily distinguishable through Brome’s interpretation. We hear the arrogance and hate in the nasal voice of a crooked seed salesman, the trepidation in his sheltered wife’s words, and the quiet, self-assured pride in Uncle Bump’s deep tones. The emotional and dramatic storytelling will captivate listeners.