Lyrical text, music, and an upbeat narration make this learning experience a pleasure.
Melinda Sewak narrates this informative and poetic picture book accompanied by buoyant music and nature sound effects. “When beavers move in" is a frequent refrain, which is then followed by a specific beaver activity. The beneficial impact of each activity is revealed, such as creating wetlands and fish habitats and restoring the health of forested areas. However, beaver dams also increase flood risks in residential areas. With a positive tone, Sewak explains how the northwest coastal Tulalip Tribes assist residents by relocating beavers to tribal lands and wild areas in the Cascade mountains. Bonus materials include notes from the author and a tribal spokesperson, additional facts about beavers, and tips on what listeners can do to help.
Lyrical text, music, and an upbeat narration make this learning experience a pleasure. (Informational picture book. 6-8)Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250431011
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: May 5, 2026
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears.
Joshua Quinn narrates this short book featuring Waffles, a friendly dog who wants a hug, and his haughty housemate, Julius the cat. Quinn gives each a fitting voice—eager and goofy for Waffles, slow and somewhat disdainful for Julius. The two interact in typical cat and dog fashion. Classic cartoon-style sound effects accompany Waffles' attempts to hug his friend. Boings, zings, cymbal crashes, howling, meowing, and more punctuate the music and narration. Julius is not interested in hugs. After a day of trying, Waffles finally settles down for a nap to the sound of a music box lullaby. A tired Julius snuggles in beside him.
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears. (Picture book. 3-7)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 7 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250443540
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: July 7, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2026
Kelly’s kaleidoscopic voice draws listeners in.
Caitlin Kelly narrates the start of a new children’s fantasy animal series from a powerhouse author. After losing their home to a mysterious fire, cat sisters Willow and Luna stumble upon secretive animals with the ability to communicate with them despite being different species. This means that the sisters are “attuned” and have magical abilities. Luna can control fire, but Willow struggles to realize her own gift. Kelly easily differentiates a wide cast of animal characters. And as Willow and Luna witness their new world clash with human witches, Kelly adds emotional intensity that matches the highly dramatic situations the animals find themselves in.
Kelly’s kaleidoscopic voice draws listeners in. (Animal fantasy. 8-12)Pub Date: May 19, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 55 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063449558
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: July 14, 2026
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