AudioFile Review of Ayana Ndoum

Sanya Simmons narrates the sixth installment in this eighteen-book series, each written by a different award-winning author. Ayana Ndoum is a shy, quiet student who usually does not stand out among her wacky third-grade classmates. While Simmons individualizes students and adults so that listeners can clearly grasp personalities and relationships, her primary focus is on Ayana’s internal battles. All Ayana’s fears come to the fore when she’s the last one to decide on her act for the class talent show. Much of the plot focuses on Ayana’s doubts and insecurities, but Simmons also delivers her spectacular breakthrough onstage.