R Is for Ricochet

Kliatt, Jan, 2005 by Sunnie Grant

R IS FOR RICOCHET. Sue Grafton. 2004. Read by Judy Kaye. 10 cds. 14+ hrs. Books on Tape. 1-4159-0271-7. $96.00. Vinyl; plot notes. SA

An elderly well-to-do gentleman has contacted Kinsey Milhone, a 30-something private investigator, to handle a small job. Not her typical prospective client, Nord Lafferty is seeking to hire Kinsey to transport his only child, 32-year-old Reba, home from the California Institute for Women. Nord would like Kinsey to assist Reba in becoming re-acclimated to civilian life following her two-year stint in prison for embezzlement. Kinsey expects to guide Reba through the probation process for a week to 10 days, but within 24 hours finds that nothing about this case is predictable.

Kaye's characterization is perfect in its gritty and straightforward style that varies throughout for the multiple characters. Sue Grafton's mastery of the suspense novel is well represented here by the quick pace and character development. I've listened to this material repeatedly and have been intrigued each time. Sunnie Grant, Dover, NH

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code will help librarians and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.