Avi’s admiration for Charles Dickens inspired this story of 14-year-old John Huffam. The listening adventure begins when John’s father is sent to debtors’ prison. Narrator John Keating’s performance is extraordinary. Every character (and there are lots) has a powerful, unique voice. Keating’s voice reflects John’s growth from trusting schoolboy to disillusioned young adult facing flawed people in a flawed world. With the arrogance of a “gentleman,” Pa has the genealogy but not the bankroll of the aristocracy. Mr. Tuckum, the bailiff, has the officious voice of a public servant who relishes his power to use the law to gain from the misfortunes of others. The author’s note gives fascinating insight into the history that inspired this story.
Ages 10+Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2007
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Contemporary Brooklyn is home to a diverse group of characters voiced by Nikki Massoud in this middle-grade mystery with a slight fantasy twist. In this second installment, amateur sleuths Roya and Amin are approached by their neighbor and fellow classmate, 12-year-old Thea, to find the treasure left in their building by her estranged grandfather. Showcasing her skills, Massoud interweaves vibrant characters and periodic Iranian words. Roya and Amin are given energetic and confident voices, while Thea's breathy voice portrays a more reserved and introverted personality. Massoud captures three generations of characters ranging from tired parents and grandparents to boisterous children.
(Mystery. 9-13)Pub Date: Nov. 11, 2025
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217157068
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
With a bright, youthful tone, narrator Rachel Jacobs voices innocent 12-year-old Razzi. Razzi has lived her entire life in an old compound--or mansion--with her parents, brother, and a few other families. She and the other children have never been allowed to go outside because nearly all of mankind was eliminated after the "Great Poisoning." However, a traumatic medical episode and a tragic event cause Razzi to question her sheltered existence. Will she rebel against authority to feel the sun on her skin and the wind on her face? Jacobs nimbly switches between adult and child voices, and her controlled pacing and subtle dramatic emphasis heighten the tension. Jacobs' performance effectively conveys Razzi's emotional turmoil as the story unfolds, adding depth to the narrative.
(Speculative thriller. 9-12)Pub Date: Oct. 7, 2025
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798225000264
Publisher: Scholastic Audiobooks
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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