Wonders of the Invisible World

By: Christopher Barzak

Narrated by: Michael Crouch

Seventeen-year-old Aidan Lockwood lives in the sleepy farming community of Temperance, Ohio - known for its cattle ranches and not much else. That is until Jarrod, a friend he hasn't seen in five years, moves back to town and opens Aidan's eyes in startling ways: to Aidan's ability to see the spirit world; to the red-bearded specter of Death; to a family curse that has claimed the lives of the Lockwood men one by one...and to the new feelings he has developed for Jarrod.

©2015 Christopher Barzak (P)2015 Audible, Inc.

My eyes were opened to the invisible world!

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, I would. Most of what happens between people is non-verbal. There are things that exist beyond our basic senses, and this book opens your mind to this "invisible world", while taking you on an illuminating journey.

Which scene was your favorite?

The ways some of the places were described, I felt like I had been to these places before. One of the gems from the book was describing the scene of where things had taken place over generations of time. It was beautiful and haunting.

Any additional comments?

I look forward to more books by Barzak!

Interesting story with lots of twists.

This is an interesting and unusual story with a lot going on. I realize this is considered a YA novel, but some of the dialogue, especially between Aiden and Jarrod seemed a little too juvenile. I really liked their relationship, though, and how Jarrod was so supportive of Aiden.

I really love that it is a modern story about a seemingly normal family...until Aidens' memories start coming back to him. Then things change dramatically, uncovering ancient curses, psychic powers, time travel and how one person who can change destiny.

I listened to the audible version and Michael Crouch did a fantastic job. I believe his narration really added to the story.

I just want more!

I loved the crafted world and the unique narration. I loved this book from start to finish. Anyone wanting a unique and gripping tale, please, try this one.

Thank you for the story :)

This book was magical. The writing was beautiful and epic, and the narrator brought the story to life. I couldn't stop listening and ended up having to stop myself at 2 am to sleep and finish the last two hours the next morning. Get this book.

I could not love this book more.

What did you love best about Wonders of the Invisible World?

The story, the writing, the narration. A perfect trifecta of perfection.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Aidan. His coming-of-age story - how he came to know himself, the world around him, and his place in it - is beautiful, so thoughtful and meaningful, translatable from the microcosm of his life to the macrocosm of society and the culture he lives in. He faces his vulnerabilities without fear and works to accept the people in his life and himself as they and he are. He doesn't know how strong he is until he's really tested, and then he finds out he's stronger than he ever knew possible. The perfect protagonist in every way.

Jarrod, of course, is a close second. Just 'cause he's so dreamy.

What does Michael Crouch bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

His vocal characterization of Aidan is spot on - full of awe and wonder but also very grounded and real. He sounds like a young man who is unsure of himself at times but is striving to tell his story. Crouch also does nice but subtle accents for some of the characters who require them and does a great job of using different but always consistent voices for all the main characters, so we can tell them apart easily.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes!

Any additional comments?

Supernatural LGBT YA fiction is my new favorite genre. Who knew it was even a thing.

good book

a good book without being great. The narrator has the perfect voice for the main character but not much range outside of that

Fantastic, very engaging!

Lo escuché en un fin de semana y no quería que terminara pero siento que termino bien c:

Supernatural Storyline Visits Sleepy Town

Is there anything you would change about this book?

I really liked the characters and their arcs, but I must admit that some of the supernatural elements distanced me from them

Would you be willing to try another book from Christopher Barzak? Why or why not?

Sure! He's really talented and original.

Which scene was your favorite?

Our protagonist, Aidan Lockwood, visiting the supernatural town to find answers to his "gifts."

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

Yep. Sure.

Any additional comments?

What tipped this book over the top for me was the great, moody and committed narration from Michael Crouch. That man can read anything and make it interesting. He's really that good.

read this book

if you like really good and vivid descriptions, magic, and love then this is the book for you. it's the book for everyone really. just read it. promise?

Enjoyed the Story

Worth checking out -- interesting world building. It moves a bit slow though. Michael Crouch's narration was as wonderful, per usual.