Sally Phillips's heartfelt performance of this novel has perfect pacing and inflection. From Little Alien's first attempt at language, listeners sense something extraordinary about her. The story's narrator, an analytical linguist, breaks down Little Alien's sentences with empathy, while Phillips's detached tone and well-timed pauses emphasize the complexities of English and the narrator's snarky undertones. Music and reading recommendations at the end of each scene enhance the novel's intrigue. As Little Alien matures, she navigates friendships, family dynamics, and school, all of which reveal her struggles with language. Phillips's mastery of cadence deepens the emotional connection to Little Alien, making her journey relatable and poignant. This performance brings the story's layers to life beautifully.
Pub Date: Feb. 11, 2025
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668645345
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this sequel to Terms of Endearment, Larry McMurtry brings back Aurora Greenway, who is now dealing with her various lovers and friends plus three grown grandchildren with a variety of problems. He presents a tale of growing up and growing old which is bittersweet and funny. Narrator Ivey uses a slight east Texas accent which authenticates the setting of the story. Each character's voice has a slightly different inflection to differentiate it. It all works together well. As you listen, you feel as if you might actually be in Houston sharing the lives of these resilient and refreshing people.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 20 hrs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
To Fred Fairly, a Cambridge Fellow, truth is everything. What then is the truth about the woman he finds beside him when he awakens? English conventions and mores of 1912 Cambridge are central to this period piece. Callow's wonderful voice and interpretation make accents, personalities and gender come alive, and help make sense of the frequent time and character shifts. His delivery enhances a most clever "choose your own ending."
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 5 hrs
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Follow
Popular in this Genre
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
