Kathleen McInerney narrates most of this story about homelessness, pets, and modern life. Kirby Heyborne impeccably portrays Baby, the loving and lovable dog owned by homeless Jewel Knight. Listeners will accompany the Trudeau family as they move into Hope House, join the endless lines for food and clothing, and try to remain optimistic. Twelve-year-old Piper notices Jewel, who's turned away from the soup kitchen because of her dog. As Jewel goes into a hospital, McInerney conveys each person realistically, including how they help each other despite their poverty, while Heyborne depicts Baby's heartbreak as he enters a shelter. The most endearing and admirable creation is Piper, who with her fellow Firefly troop, sells brownies to help Jewel and Baby. The conclusion is both satisfying and believable.
(Fiction. 9-12)Pub Date: Aug. 13, 2019
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780062914309
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This powerful story will stay with listeners long after the last word has been spoken.
Aria Mia Loberti masters the voice of seventh grader Roxie, expressing the jumble of emotions she feels as she struggles to fit in and find acceptance as her unique self. She was bullied at her old school because her parents are blind. Will a fresh start in a new town lead to friends who will see Roxie for who she is? Loberti also gives supporting characters unique voices. She conveys little brother Theo’s excitement, classmate Quinn’s superior attitude, and the wisdom of Charlie, a boy who also has blind parents. Jeff Ebner is outstanding as Nash, Penny’s guide dog, narrating chapters from his perspective and expressing his patience and insight.
This powerful story will stay with listeners long after the last word has been spoken. (Fiction. 9-13)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 7 hrs, 41 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217412556
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: yesterday
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 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
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