Items related to Sun Moon Stars Rain: Library Edition
Synopsis
He's supposed to be a college student, but Danny Murtagh is adrift. A gifted pianist with a broken heart, he's come home to regain his sense of balance. But to do so, he must dig much deeper than his failed romance--and come to terms with the central tragedy of his life.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
About the Authors
JAN CHERIPKO is the author of several children's books, including Imitate the Tiger, Brother Bartholomew, and The Apple Grove. He lives in Bethany, Pennsylvania.
JAN CHERIPKO is the author of several children's books, including Imitate the Tiger, Brother Bartholomew, and The Apple Grove. He lives in Bethany, Pennsylvania.
Reviews
Grade 9 Up—Danny Murtaugh, a music prodigy and recent college dropout, is trying to piece together the meaning of his life by returning to his home where, as a young boy, he witnessed the death of his father in a drowning accident. This piece of the puzzle is a common thread connecting several people in his hometown. While on his quest, Danny meets Stephanie, a waitress with a tainted past. Jan Cheripko's novel (Front Street, 2006) blends routine occurrences such as death, romance, and soul-searching into a wonderful, heart-wrenching story filled with tragedy and the search for meaning in one's life. The inclusion of strong language adds to the emotional impact of the story. The full-cast narration is excellent, varying inflection and rhythm. An interview with Cheripko is included at the end of the novel.—Cheryl Preisendorfer, Twinsburg City Schools, OH
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
*Starred Review* Danny Murtaugh’s life is at a crossroads. Despite a full music scholarship, he drops out of college and returns to his rural community. Danny falls in love with Stephanie, a single mom and recovering addict, and also becomes embroiled in local issues involving state takeover of undeveloped land. While navigating these situations, Danny realizes his true torment is his unresolved grief over his father’s accidental death eight years ago. Murphy’s well-placed inflections and tones meticulously convey Danny’s emotions and angst. The other readers in this full-cast ensemble capture the essence of the characters through consistent and expressive readings. David Baker is particularly noteworthy in his voicing of good-hearted though flawed Benji Samuels, an alcoholic and friend of Danny’s late father. Baker’s halting, inebriated speaking style is just right and allows listeners to connect to the character. Carmen Viviano-Crafts’ low-key interpretation of Stephanie is perfect; she comes across as very natural, adding sweetness, vulnerability, and emotion to the character, who is trying to reclaim her life. Classical piano music accompanies the story, an appropriate, meaningful touch because Danny is an accomplished pianist. The background music is a haunting, subtle enhancement, never disrupting the flow of the narrative. Sound effects, including gunshots and barking dogs, add to the startling realism. Bruce Coville’s thoughtful interview with author Cheripko concludes this highly recommended audio. The short listening time makes this a perfect choice for reluctant readers and listeners. Grades 10-12. --Linda Sawyer
Jan Cheripko's experience as an English teacher gives him a window into the inner lives of teenagers. His book, SUN MOON STARS RAIN, tells the story of Danny Murtaugh, an 18-year-old piano prodigy and college dropout. Danny is home to face his ghosts and deal with the death of his father, which he witnessed nine years earlier. The prose is poetic, and the cast does a professional job of breathing life into the story. Spencer Murphy is believable as Danny, a young man on the verge of adulthood who is wrestling with grief, guilt, and God. Carmen Viviano Craft also gives an outstanding performance as Stephanie, a waitress with a past who catches Danny's eye. Musician Todd Hoban enhances the atmosphere with Bach, Sibelius, and some original keyboard work. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Search results for Sun Moon Stars Rain: Library Edition
Stock Image
sun moon stars rain [Library]
Seller: The Yard Sale Store, Narrowsburg, NY, U.S.A.
Seller rating 5 out of 5 stars
Audio CD. Condition: Good. 3 Worthwhile and individually polished CDs. Withdrawn from the library collection with some library sticker and marking. Enjoy this reliable audio CD performance. Audio Book. Seller Inventory # 022018030405317