When Zachary Beaver Came to Town Audiobook By Kimberly Willis Holt cover art

When Zachary Beaver Came to Town

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When Zachary Beaver Came to Town

By: Kimberly Willis Holt
Narrated by: Will Patton
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Nothing ever happens in Toby's small Texas town. Nothing much until this summer that's full of big changes.

It's tough for Toby when his mother leaves home to become a country singer. And Toby takes it hard when his best friend Cal's older brother goes off to fight in Vietnam. But now their sleepy town is about to get an even bigger jolt with the arrival of Zachary Beaver, billed as the fattest boy in the world. Toby is in for a summer unlike any other, a summer sure to change his life.

©1999 Laurie Halse Anderson (P)2000 Random House, Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group Fiction Growing Up Primary Education Romance Friendship

Critic reviews

"Holt...sets her heartwarming and carefully crafted novel during 1971, but her message of tolerance is one that contemporary readers will appreciate." (Publishers Weekly)

"Will Patton is exceptional in his narration. His voice is firm and sincere, with a deliberate slowness that gives import to the motif of watching and inevitable change. His pauses allow the listener to reflect on the story's events and the understandings and friendships that develop and deepen because of them. Don't miss this recording!" (AudioFile)

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I teach 6th grade and we all love it! we have a copy for all 24 students. perfect match for 6th grade! love Kimberly willis holt!

love this book!! my class of 6th graders loves it

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My family and I listened to this book while traveling, the kids stopped watching their movie to listen. We really enjoyed it, one that I have recommended over and over again!

Awesome audio book!

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Terrific story with incredible narration by the wonderful Will Patton. In 1971 I was the same age as the main character and his best friend. This book reminded me of much of the feelings I had at that age.

Great story for adults, too

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I thought the book was charming, although the ending seemed a bit contrived. Overall,it's entertaining.

charming

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This story is an amazing coming of age novel. Small town, odd friends with colorful personalities, beautiful setting, what's not to like.

Will Patton is my absolute favorite actor who is also a narrator. He is masterful.

I Absolutely Loved This Story!!!

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I must confess that I was originally searching for any books narrated by Will Patton. He is very talented. When I came across this book, I hesitated because it's considered a kid's book. I was more than pleasantly surprised with how entertaining it was. I am so glad I took a chance on it!!

A Great Listen!!

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Why is it so hard to find a universally, clean, appealing book for everyone? Well, this book is that rare gem and in Audible form it is even better because the narration is unbelievably good. Whenever I am feeling stressed with how crude, jaded and unimaginative the world has become, I'll return to listening to this reminder of more gentle times when shock and sharp edges weren't required to sell books.

The Perfect Family Book

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Absolutely loved this book! I was reluctant at first because the main character is a middle-grade boy so I thought I wouldn't relate (I'm 53 years old and female). By a third of the way in I was hooked. Great descriptions, setting, and characters. The author brought the town and its people to life.

Fabulous Audiobook!

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A lovely, touching story from beginning to end. I highly recommend it those needing an emotional lift.

Heartwarming Stiry

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