The Reformatory: A Novel

"Joniece Abbott–Pratt masterfully re-creates a 1950s Florida reformatory in this story based on a relative of author Tananarive Due and other actual people and events. Listeners meet 12-year-old Robbie Stephens, Jr., and Gloria, his 16-year-old sister, after Robbie is arrested for defending her from a white boy. While in the segregated reform school, Robbie experiences and witnesses unfathomable punishment for tiny infractions. As Gloria attempts to free him, Abbott–Pratt’s finest creations emerge: 83-year-old Miss Lottie and her ancient pickup truck. Abbott–Pratt expertly portrays the story’s crushing atmosphere, as well as fearless Gloria, terrified boys, and, most movingly, the “haints”—ghosts of dead boys—who assist Robbie with his escape. Although painful, this is essential listening about a shameful blot on American history."