Pay Attention, Carter Jones

By: Gary D. Schmidt

Narrated by: Christopher Gebauer

Best-selling author Gary D. Schmidt tells a coming-of-age story with the light touch of The Wednesday Wars, the heart of Okay for Now, and the unique presence of a wise and witty butler.

Carter Jones is astonished early one morning when he finds a real English butler, bowler hat and all, on the doorstep - one who stays to help the Jones family, which is a little bit broken.

In addition to figuring out middle school, Carter has to adjust to the unwelcome presence of this new know-it-all adult in his life and navigate the butler's notions of decorum. And ultimately, when his burden of grief and anger from the past can no longer be ignored, Carter learns that a burden becomes lighter when it is shared.

Sparkling with humor, this insightful and compassionate story will resonate with listeners who have confronted secrets of their own.

©2019 Gary D. Schmidt (P)2019 Recorded Books

Great story

I love coming of age stories and this one definitely left me feeling good! Narration was perfect. Kind of like Mary Poppins flipped to the masculine (but without magic) and with cricket instead of kites - definitely unique. May we all make good decisions and remember who we are!

The butler

Funny book. Very intriguing. Loved the main character narration. Listening to his thoughts made the book a lot more interesting.

Great book

This a amazing book that has you on the edge of your seat every time!!

Great character voice

The main character communicates his thoughts and feelings in detail. Lots of action. Lots to relate to. Kept me engaged.

A Story that Gets to the Heart of the Matter

Gary D. Schmidt has written a heartfelt story of loss and longing and how one boy figures it out. Carter's family is broken. They're grieving the death of his younger brother and the absence of his father. In walks a British butler with wise words, kindness, and the game of cricket. Christopher Gebauer is a terrific narrator for this story. He captures the voice and character of Carter Jones. I will listen to this one again.