Wesley and the River Run

By: Marc DeAngelo

Narrated by: Michael Leverone

Written by a school social worker with learning differences, Wesley and the River Run is a young adult short story that encourages the listener to set goals, take risks, and feel empowered to work through personal struggles by trusting in themselves and the gifts that they have been given. The author packages principles of mindfulness, resiliency, strength-based theory, dialectical behavioral therapy, and self-advocacy within a gripping story about an eleven year old boy and his friends who participate in their town's annual summer river challenge. Parents and teachers will also identify with moments in this story as the author demonstrates ways to connect with children and it is through this connection that their children can achieve their true potential.

©2023 Marc DeAngelo (P)2024 Marc DeAngelo

Perseverance

I loved how the hero learned that using his own skills, even if different than those others have, can work for him. He learned to believe in and stand up for himself. I loved how some of the river coaches supported him. A very accurate portrayal of the experiences of those who learn differently!

Outstanding performance of a wonderful young adult short story

Leverone performs Marc DeAngelo’s story into life!!!

Michael’s emotional performance as well as his engineering- sound effects, dramatic audio, and moments that combine Leverone‘s narration with sound effects, pacing, and music from the author’s own band Summer Rain (Easter egg!!) during intro and finale.

This is a very unique audiobook experience, a great vibe, and an amazing book for middle school students AND teachers to read together. Every element of the story is carefully crafted to help both students and teachers see and understand each other in and through crisis situations and the the bonds built through the twists and turns of the young adult years in school.