Narrator Soneela Nankani instills this audiobook with youthful wonder. She provides a distinct voice for each character and handles the Indian pronunciations with ease. A diverse soundtrack accompanies the narration, immersing listeners in the tale of Ramanujan, the boy who would reinvent modern mathematics. As he grew up, Ramanujan was so busy exploring numbers that he struggled with the rest of his schoolwork, even failing out of college. But after reaching out to Cambridge University, despite his lack of formal education, he received an invitation to England to share his ideas with other mathematicians. Sound effects, such as gentle rain, chalk on slate, and splashing water immerse listeners in this biography.
(Picture book/biography. 6-10)Pub Date: 2020
Duration: 24 mins
DD ISBN: 9781690592587
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Much has been written on Jackie Robinson's groundbreaking career and legacy, but it's nice to see a well-done synopsis covering the highlights of his life for young people. Narrator JD Jackson carries the story as he conveys the importance of Robinson's life without overdramatization. It covers Robinson's growing up, time in the Army, and deliberate recruitment for the purpose of breaking Major League baseball's color barrier. Jackson gives various players, coaches, and individuals--including Robinson's wife, Rachel--slight accents. His steady, animated narration reflects the well-researched book and is sure to hold the attention of both young and older listeners.
(Biography. 10-13)Pub Date: 2017
Duration: 2 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN:
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Classical music provides an enjoyable background to the story of Cecilia Chiang. She first watched cooking in her family home in China and then was introduced to its varied cuisine as she crossed the country during WWII. Later, she immigrated to the US. Cindy Kay's soft voice transmits Cecilia's dedication to the dishes she loves and grows stronger and more determined as she finds herself wanting to share them. The accuracy of Kay's accent and the descriptions of dishes as Chiang opens San Francisco's Mandarin, the first restaurant to treat Chinese food as fine dining, awakens listeners' taste buds, provides authenticity, and creates appreciation for Chiang's accomplishments.
(Picture-book biography. 5-10)Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668647394
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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