Ender’s Game Alive by Orson Scott Card Audiobook Review
Orson Scott Card’s critical sci-fi novel Ender’s Game leaps off the page in this immersive full-cast audio drama titled Ender’s Game Alive. Throughout almost 7 hours, committed young stars bring Card’s renowned characters and sophisticated futuristic world to vibrant life.
The ensemble immerses listeners directly into Battle School aboard the orbiting satellite, from the stresses of zero-G fight simulation spaces to social dynamics within crowded dorms. Subtle singing flourishes alone define each participant in humankind’s resistance to an insectoid alien danger.
As the main hero Andrew “Ender” Wiggin, Thomas Dekker imbues stoic intelligence and emerging cunning behind a childlike facade. Through nuanced line readings, Dekker discreetly communicates Ender’s mental unravelling under extreme military training created to find an unequalled leader.
Standouts include Kirby Heyborne’s empathetic yet completely enthusiastic portrayal of fellow trainee Bonzo Madrid and Gina Sankey meaning much deeper depths within the enigmatic girl understood just as Petra Arkanian. Nathaniel Bump’s control of the system as Colonel Hyrum Graff resonates with authority.
Smooth scene shifts circulation from climactic action series to peaceful moments of introspection and interpersonal drama. Expressive sound design immerses listeners totally within Card’s imagined future science setting and high stakes. Specialist pacing exposes discoveries matching print narrative while maintaining suspense.
Reaching the gut-wrenching finale, Card has crafted the perfect audio entrance for longtime fans into his prominent work while capturing new imaginations. Ender’s Game Alive honours the novel’s profound sociological insights through a cinematic listening experience not to be missed.
