Five, Six, Seven, Nate!

This sequel to Better Nate Than Ever finds the young and slightly overweight Nate as the second understudy to Elliot in the Broadway production of E.T.: The Musical. Surrounded by oversized egos and a condescending crew, Nate feels far from home, even though this is supposed to be his dream. He is now the small fish in the pond and feels it with every mistake he makes. Narrator Federle brings a fantastic voice to the young and theatrically inclined protagonist, capturing Nate’s mixture of uncertainty, outrageousness, and attitude without missing a beat. Moreover, his colorful character voices provide a rich and often comical range of personality throughout the story. Ages 10–14. A Simon & Schuster hardcover. (Apr.)