Storm Runners, Book 2

Gr 5–8—Roland Smith's second book (Scholastic, 2011) in the series picks up just as Chase, Nicole, and Rashawn have made it back to the relative safety of Nicole's farm. With the category 5 hurricane's winds still raging, floodwaters rising, power out and a generator very low on gas, a very pregnant elephant, and dangerous circus animals on the loose around the farm, there is still danger to face. The events presented take place in just under five hours. Listeners should be familiar with the first title in order to understand this action-packed sequel. Without the added sound effects of the earlier volume, Ramon de Ocampo must rely solely on pacing and voicing to fully express the intensity, fear, and heart-pounding peril. While this is met with uneven success, listeners will be able to visualize the action portrayed and will be on the edge of their seats. The tale ends with a satisfying cliffhanger, leaving listeners waiting for the next installment.—Stephanie A. Squicciarini, Fairport Public Library, NY