The Night Tourist

This audio retelling doesn't soar quite as high as the ghosts that haunt Manhattan by night in Marsh's children's book debut, starring a boy in search of his late mother's spirit. Based on elements of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, the story is steeped in New York City history and atmosphere, and shot through with a hefty dose of humor. Unfortunately, the voices of the two protagonists, Jack and Euri, are afflicted with a somewhat nagging, nervous quality, making them seem younger than their 14 years. Worse, that tone swallows much of the wit in Marsh's language. Still, there are many high points: Rannels has a gift for tough-guy Brooklynese, and although his narratorial voice is almost identical to Jack's, that same insistent quality, when applied to the general narration, helps drive the story forward and lends a level of tension that should keep listeners' attention. Ages 9-up. Simultaneous release with the Hyperion release (Reviews, Oct. 8). (Sept.)