If you’re seeking an engaging audiobook that delivers an in-depth look into the complexities of family life, you won’t want to miss out on “One Two Three” by Laurie Frankel. This audiobook review will provide you with all the details you need to know about “One Two Three,” including an overview of the plot, an analysis of the characters, and insights into the author’s writing style. You will also get a complete evaluation of the audiobook performance and a summary of how critics have received this Countdown to Change.
About the Author
Laurie Frankel is an accomplished author with several publications to her name. She was born in Long Island, New York, but grew up in California. Frankel majored in English and Creative Writing at Pomona College and went on to earn an MFA from the University of Michigan. Besides being a novelist, she is also a short story writer.
Frankel’s first novel, The Atlas of Love, was published in 2010 and was followed by Goodbye for Now (2012) and This Is How It Always Is (2017), which became a New York Times bestseller. Her latest book, One Two Three, was published in 2021 and has been receiving critical acclaim.
“Frankel excels at creating relatable and authentic characters that will keep readers invested from the first page to the last.”
Plot Summary
Set in a small town called Bourne, “One Two Three” by Laurie Frankel revolves around three children, all born on the same day. The Wayne family’s daughters Mab, Monday, and Mirabel are all unique and bonded together through thick and thin. At the same time, the family grapples with the town’s ongoing water contamination crisis. The three sisters find themselves at the epicenter of the Bourne’s problems.
With their mother’s leadership, the Wayne sisters, in tandem with their community, fight for remediation of the town’s water supply. Amid all the chaos, Mab discovers a life-altering secret, the revelation of which will change the Wayne family’s life forever. Told through rotating narrators, the novel highlights the Wayne sisters’ incredible strength and courage in the face of difficult circumstances.
The novel communicates themes of hope, environmental advocacy, and the value of community. In its heartwarming portrayal of family and community, the book draws readers into the lives of the Wayne sisters and their fight against all odds.
Character Analysis
In “One Two Three” by Laurie Frankel, the characters are complex and multifaceted, and their development throughout the book is a central focus of the narrative. Through their motivations and personalities, readers gain insight into the themes and messages of the book.
Let’s take a closer look at the main characters:
| Character Name | Personality Traits | Motivations |
|---|---|---|
| Charm | Driven, intelligent, and resourceful | To find a cure for her daughter’s illness and provide for her family |
| Ginger | Artistic, empathetic, and introspective | To come to terms with her past and find her place in the present |
| Rose | Rebellious, passionate, and caring | To fight for justice and protect her family and community |
Their interactions and relationships also play a crucial role in shaping the narrative and exploring the book’s themes. Through their struggles and triumphs, readers are invited to reflect on their own experiences and relationships.
Writing Style and Narrative
Laurie Frankel’s writing style in “One Two Three” is distinctive, with a compelling narrative that holds the reader’s attention throughout the book. Frankel has a unique voice and storytelling approach that draws the reader into the world she has created.
The story is narrated in the third person, giving readers a bird’s eye view of what is happening in the lives of the characters. The book is also written in the present tense, which adds to the sense of immediacy and urgency in the story.
Frankel’s writing is characterized by its simplicity and clarity. She doesn’t use flowery or elaborate language but rather relies on straightforward and accessible prose that makes the story easy to follow.
“Frankel’s writing is economical, with no excess words or scenes. Her prose is understated and knows when to let the characters speak for themselves in moments of vulnerability and emotion.”
The narrative structure of “One Two Three” is also noteworthy. The story is told through a series of flashbacks and present-day events, with each chapter weaving seamlessly between the two formats. This approach adds depth and complexity to the story while keeping the reader engaged and curious about what happens next.
Overall, Laurie Frankel’s writing style and narrative techniques in “One Two Three” combine to create a powerful and unforgettable reading experience.
Themes and Messages
As readers dive into “One Two Three” by Laurie Frankel, several themes and messages emerge. One of the central themes of the book is the importance of family and the lengths that individuals will go to protect their loved ones. The story also touches on societal issues such as climate change and the impact of industrialization on small towns.
Frankel’s writing addresses these themes with a sense of urgency and compassion. The characters’ struggles bring to light the realities of the world we live in and the choices we make that affect it. The author uses the narrative to reveal a deeper message; our lives are interconnected, and we all have a role to play in creating a better future.
The book’s underlying messages are powerful, reflecting current real-world situations. “One Two Three” offers readers an opportunity to explore these themes and how they relate to our daily lives. It teaches us to look beyond ourselves and consider the impact of our choices on those around us.
“Through the struggles of the three siblings, we see the power of family, the importance of community, and the magnitude of our impact on the environment. A truly powerful and thought-provoking read.” -Goodreads Review.
Audiobook Performance
Listening to an audiobook is a unique experience, and the performance of the narrator plays a crucial role in delivering an engaging and enjoyable atmosphere. In “One Two Three,” the audiobook performance brilliantly captures the essence of Laurie Frankel’s story.
The narrator’s delivery is smooth and pleasant to listen to, effortlessly immersing the listener into the complex world of the Mitchell family. The pacing of the narration keeps the listener engaged while providing ample time to process the details of each scene.
The narrator’s ability to bring the story to life through audio is impressive. The audiobook performance highlights the beauty of the language used in the book, enhancing the experience for the listener.
“The audiobook performance exceeded my expectations. The narrator’s ability to convey the emotions of each character added depth to the story and brought the characters to life.”
The audiobook performance of “One Two Three” is a testament to the skill of the narrator and the author’s ability to create a compelling story. For those who enjoy audiobooks, this performance is not to be missed.
Critical Reception
Since its release, One Two Three has garnered favorable reviews from both readers and critics alike.
“Laurie Frankel’s writing sparkles in this incredible novel of family, love, and resilience. One Two Three is a triumph.” – Kristin Hannah, bestselling author
The book has been praised for its character development, gripping narrative, and thought-provoking themes. Publishers Weekly hailed the novel as “a moving tale of love, loss, and the power of community.”
The audiobook performance has also been commended, with AudioFile praising the narrator’s “sensitive portrayal of the characters.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, “One Two Three” by Laurie Frankel is a must-read audiobook that brilliantly showcases the complexities of familial relationships and the impacts of environmental disasters. Frankel’s unique storytelling approach and use of multiple perspectives offer readers a fresh take on the traditional family drama genre. The audiobook performance by the narrator was impeccable, with a perfect balance of pacing and tone, bringing the story to life.
The themes of love, resilience, and community are expertly woven into the narrative, leaving readers with a sense of hope and optimism. Overall, “One Two Three” is a captivating and thought-provoking audiobook that will keep listeners engaged from start to finish.
Whether you are a fan of Laurie Frankel’s previous works or new to her writing, “One Two Three” is a highly recommended addition to any audiobook collection. With its powerful messages and expert delivery, “One Two Three” is sure to be a standout audiobook of the year.
Thank you for reading our audiobook review of “One Two Three” by Laurie Frankel. We hope this review has provided you with valuable insights into the book and helped you make an informed decision about adding it to your listening list. Happy listening!
