Falling Like Leaves. ­

Gr 7 Up–Ross’s narration adds dimension to Wilson’s cozy, light autumn romance. The author’s debut novel follows Ellis, a high-achieving student heading into her ­senior year with hopes of going to Columbia University and following her dad’s footsteps in journalism. When her parents separate, she’s forced to start her senior year in small-town Connecticut, where she struggles to slow down and enjoy the fall-themed ­festivities. While settling in, she runs into her beloved childhood ex, and he’s not happy to see her. The novel balances cozy autumn romance and all the tropes readers will be looking for while maintaining depth. ­Ellis’s exploration of her drive for achievement and finding herself will be relatable to young people. The audio opens with bright music, and Ross creates perfect narration of the main character’s moods and dramatics, offering an emotive tone and solid pacing. There is an effective contrast between the moodiness of Ellis and the warmth of the townspeople.