This audiobook examines the impact of viruses like HIV and COVID on people without resources and political connections. Narrated with intensity and empathy by author Steven W. Thrasher, the production takes the perspectives of victims, their friends, and other activists. Thrasher's delivery channels the raw emotions, particularly frustration and animus, that those who contract these and other conditions feel because of their lack of privilege. While many books consider more well-known people and more common societal themes, this study brings to life the inequities often overlooked by the traditional press and other chroniclers. Thanks to Thrasher and his memorable performance, these previously unheard stories are given a voice. D.J.S. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine

Praise for the Sammy Keyes series:
 
“Van Draanen offers such an explosive combination of high-stakes sleuthing, hilarity, and breathlessly paced action that it’s impossible to turn the pages fast enough.” —Kirkus Reviews

“There’s no stopping Sammy.”—Publishers Weekly

“An intelligent, gutsy, flawed, and utterly likable heroine.”—Booklist

"Move over, Nancy Drew—a new sleuth is on the scene.”—Girls’ Life

"Think a combination of Carl Hiaasen’s Flush and Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum books and you’ll be right on target.” —School Library Journal

“A high-quality, high-amp mystery series.” —The Horn Book
 
“This funny, clever series is NOT for kids only. I challenge the most seasoned mystery reader to guess ‘who done it.’” —Cozies, Capers, and Crimes
 
“Sammy Keyes comes armed with attitude.” —Orlando Sentinel

“Sammy doesn’t find mysteries to solve—they find her.” —Arizona Republic

“Humor, romance and adventure; this story is an absolute blast.” —Chicago Tribune
 
“If you haven’t met Sammy Keyes yet, now is the time.” —Children’s Literature

Sammy Keyes cannot keep away from mysterious happenings—even aboard a relaxing cruise to Mexico. Previously, Sammy was finally able to meet her long-absent, rock-star father, Darren. They decide to go on a bonding vacation. Darren will be performing on the cruise so he brings his band mate, Marko, and Sammy brings her friend, Marissa. As the group is entering the ship, they meet up with the very wealthy and very troubled Kensington family. They bond with the one trustworthy family member, Kip, who is adopted from Africa and thinks the Kensington's are just as odd as Sammy does. The head of the family recently died. On the cruise, his will is going be divulged, and everyone wants a piece of the family fortune. Just after they announce the scandalous will, Kip's grandmother disappears. Kip, Sammy, Marissa, Darren, and Marko all want to crack the case—which includes coded messages, dead ends, and surprise twists galore. This newest installment in the Sammy Keyes series does not fail to entertain. The novel incorporates many plot points seen in classic "who dunnits," and executes them flawlessly. The author is able to keep suspense high, while also developing the relationships between Sammy and other characters, especially her father. The characters of Sammy and Marissa foil one another nicely, and put together with Marko and Darren, a very dynamic and engaging foursome is formed. The book can be read independently of the Sammy Keyes series, but readers who have followed Sammy's journey will be able to fully appreciate the title. Reviewer: Morgan Brickey

A celebratory cruise leads to mischief and mystery for Sammy as she embarks upon a memorable journey. In this second-to-last title in the long-running series, Sammy is in the midst of transition. In addition to her BFF Marissa's impending move and her grandmother's second marriage, Sammy has just begun establishing a relationship with her recently discovered father, Darren, who happens to be a famous musician. In honor of Sammy's 14th birthday—and in an endeavor to further their relationship—Darren invites Sammy and Marissa to accompany him on a cruise where his band will be performing. Nautical life quickly becomes complicated for the irrepressible sleuth. After meeting JT and Kip, members of the wealthy Kensington family, Sammy and Marissa inadvertently become embroiled in their family drama. When the Kensington family matriarch goes missing midcruise, Sammy joins Kip in his quest to discover what happened to his grandmother. Van Draanen provides a satisfyingly convoluted mystery for Sammy—and readers—to unravel. Secret codes, greedy heirs and ambiguous clues test Sammy's sleuthing mettle. However, at the center of this tale is the emotional journey Sammy takes as she navigates her fledgling relationship with her father. Their emerging bond reveals a new emotional dimension to the savvy teen. Van Draanen's latest tale combines a fresh adventure and diverting mystery with a heartfelt storyline that enriches the series. (Mystery. 10-14)