Narrator Jordan Killam sets a light mood for a tale of one special zombie and a host of Halloween creatures. Ghoulia lives in Crumbling Manor and is observant of her auntie's rules, which include NOT leaving the grounds and NOT playing with the neighborhood children. But when Ghoulia overhears these same children discussing "one special night," she hatches a plan for friendship. Will it work? Killam clearly and steadily details Ghoulia's preparations--borrowing makeup, styling her hair, and finding a suitable satchel for treats--and adds spice as she portrays assorted family members. Her asides--such as a description of a worm delicacy--are shared in a confidential manner. The background music and sound effects are well suited to a spooky evening.
(Fantasy. 6-8)Pub Date: Sept. 18, 2018
Duration: 29 mins
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
While holiday books for children abound, there seem to be too few that have an audio component. The seven-day festival of Kwanzaa, celebrated in December, lends itself to the read-along format with the Pinkneys' appealing picture book. Alfre Woodard introduces the African-American holiday and reads the story by Andrea Davis Pinkney. Clearly enunciating the African words for the foods, gifts and elements of the celebration, Woodard projects a welcoming tone that any listener can share. Traditional African music accompanies the tape--one side with page-turn signals, one without--but remains appropriately in the background. The vivid colors and contrasts of the illustrations make the picture book a standout, but the recording is nicely effective alone.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 11 mins
Publisher: Weston Woods Studios
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Ho’s charming portrayal of this family and their unique Halloween party is sure to get listeners into the autumnal...
Narrator Rebecca Ho creates a youthful voice for Lilly as she describes her grandpa’s love of Halloween. Since moving to America from China, Lao Ye has embraced all holidays, but he finds Halloween to be the “kindest,” and this year he plans to make it extra special by having a pancake party. Ho captures this joy as she describes kids getting to dress up however they like, neighbors giving out candy to one another, and a general sense of togetherness. Musical interludes and background noises of kids having fun add to the listening experience, and Lao Ye’s pancake recipe is even included.
Ho’s charming portrayal of this family and their unique Halloween party is sure to get listeners into the autumnal spirit. (Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Duration: 7 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250441669
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Aug. 24, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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