Vernon Culligan, dead since Chapter One, is the most vivid voice in this story as his orphaned nephew, Gabe, seeks to deal with his uncle's sudden death, the disappearance of his body, and odd supportive notes from him that keep appearing in the mailbox. Vernon, a reclusive Vietnam vet, has left a bequest of cranky homespun sayings that guide Gabe through his early days in sixth grade and his housework on the isolated farm where he lives. Nick Landrum imbues Gabe, his classmates, teachers, and other adults with individuality and character, especially the sharp-voiced sheriff who tries to sort out the uncle's death. Landrum's matter-of-fact narration through Gabe's eyes makes the boy's fate the listener's primary concern.
Ages 10+Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2007
Duration: 5 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A heartfelt audiobook for the entire family to enjoy.
With a youthful voice, Jeff Ebner brings much emotion to this realistic middle-grade novel. Ten-year-old Nathan Savage is consumed with worry that the gigantic pile of trash across the street from his home is about to collapse. He’s even more worried that his father, who works at the top of said pile, is in extreme danger. It’s up to Nathan to devise a flawless plan to save the day. Ebner’s fast-paced, energetic narration moves the action along, engaging young listeners to the very last word.
A heartfelt audiobook for the entire family to enjoy.Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 4 hrs, 55 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217280445
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: April 4, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 2026
A solid production with moments of real tension and conflict.
Skillful narration breathes life into Newbery-winner Keller’s tale of middle-grade angst, fate, friendship, climate change, and social media. In chapters told from the viewpoints of Nomi, Vi, and Arthur, each narrator delivers a nuanced, emotional, well-paced performance. Annie Q. Riegel imbues shy Vi with hurt and innocence as she experiences her first crush and regrets a poor choice. Sara Matsui-Colby injects focus and self-assurance into Nomi’s obsession with a book of “prophesies.” Eddy Lee captures Arthur’s reserved nature, which restrains him from supporting Vi and expressing his feelings for Nomi. The poetic prophecies of the Greek chorus, warmly delivered by Emily Woo Zeller, convey details that are unknown to the characters.
A solid production with moments of real tension and conflict. (Fiction. 10-14)Pub Date: March 3, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 3 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217156979
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: March 25, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 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.
