The audiobook for The Spaces That Hold You is now available!
Josh Self has completed the narration and production of the audiobook for The Spaces That Hold You! It is a beautiful story in itself, that the author's son, Josh, is now the voice of Levi. His tone, emotion, and delivery align perfectly with Levi's depth and complexity. Josh's portrayal of Levi is not only authentic but also deeply moving. We appreciate his dedication and commitment to delivering a compelling listening experience, which has resulted in the audiobook's successful production. Bravo Josh!
The audiobook is available now on Audible, Amazon and iTunes. Click the button below to listen to a preview sample, to add it to your Audible Library, or to purchase it on Amazon.
DEBUT NOVEL BY KARLA SELF RELEASED
AVAILABLE on Amazon and from your favorite bookseller.
The Spaces That Hold You is a tragic and heartwarming story about the life of Levi Strong, a boy who is swept into the most difficult of circumstances.
It is the 1960s in Kelsey, a place left behind by the dustbowl migrants in California.
The underpinnings of racism hold tight to the town, pushing Levi to face the indelible harm of indifference from those like himself, who can blend easily into the fold, as they stand by in silence, while others unfurl their tongues and fists on those they perceive to be different.
Levi’s mother, Katharine, keeps many secrets. Some, Levi gives witness to, but the worst of them will change everything, when he is forced to question all that he has ever known about his mother and himself.
Join Levi on his journey of discovery. This captivating story will leave you pondering the profound spaces that connect us all.
Review by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Spaces That Hold You is a work of fiction in the interpersonal drama, coming-of-age, and slice-of-life subgenres. It was penned by author Karla Self with narration provided for the audiobook version by Josh Self. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. This deeply poignant narrative is set in 1960s Kelsey, a town marked by the Dust Bowl migration in California. Levi Strong, the protagonist, navigates life's challenges in a place where history, racism, and indifference shape the landscape. The story delves into Levi's search for identity and the complexities of his mother Katharine's secrets, all against the backdrop of a town divided by prejudice.
Author Karla Self has crafted a heartfelt and emotional journey that gives so much detail, atmosphere, and life to a small town that you feel instantly as though you’re right there with her characters. The slow Southern drawl of the dialogue encapsulates the atmosphere, immersing readers in Levi's world and showcasing the attitudes and humor of the people of Kelsey with vivid language. The narrative has a tender and respectful way of exploring themes of racism and identity, capturing the pulse of history and the endurance of hope amid hardship without ever stepping into anything gimmicky. The characters are vividly penned and rise wonderfully to meet the struggles and triumphs that make them so relatable and memorable.
In terms of its audiobook presentation, this enchanting story is only further enriched by narrator Josh Self’s emotional depth, vividly painting a picture of a time and place with a warm and wistful voice. The editing was crisp and clear, and everything was delivered at a superb pace to really get readers into the story. Overall, The Spaces That Hold You is a beautiful, sometimes tragic, but always heartwarming exploration of the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity, and I would certainly recommend it to fans of accomplished Southern drama everywhere.