English American actor Moira Quirk narrates the experiences of 10 young women who were all involved in some fashion in British code-breaking efforts during WWII. Each figure represents one facet of the mammoth project, which encompassed decrypting the Nazis' famed Enigma cipher, transcribing and indexing messages, monitoring radio transmissions, and more. Excerpts from journals and memoirs allow the women's own voices to be heard, but despite references to the UK's regional and socioeconomic diversity, Quirk does little to particularize accents. However, listeners will be grateful for her articulate delivery of the art and science of cryptography. Many of these explanations are difficult to follow aurally, but Quirk helps listeners keep encrypted letter patterns straight. Fascinating.
(Nonfiction. 9-14)Pub Date: March 5, 2024
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781546117636
Publisher: Scholastic Audiobooks
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This production reflects both the sweep of history and the intimate resilience of one family.
A talented ensemble cast brings this fictionalized graphic memoir to life in a vivid, fully immersive listening experience. Young Carlos, voiced by Cuban American narrator Giordan Diaz, anchors the story with a performance that captures innocence, fear, and curiosity as revolution begins to shadow his childhood in Cuba. Daniel Miyares narrates in a steady, serious tone, skillfully weaving the historical context of 1950s Cuba into the family’s perilous journey toward Key West, Florida. The contrast between his grounded narration and the emotionally charged family scenes adds depth and authenticity. Cuban music and layered sound design, like rolling waves, hushed conversations, and distant protesters, create a cinematic atmosphere.
This production reflects both the sweep of history and the intimate resilience of one family. (Graphic memoir. 8-12)Pub Date: March 3, 2026
Duration: 1 hr, 27 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217346066
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: March 10, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 15, 2026
An engaging performance by Cary Hite enlivens this accessible history of basketball for young listeners, with a focus on the men's game and an "overtime" section devoted to the women's. Hite narrates with relish and an audible appreciation for the sport's evolution from a glorified game of hot potato to today's fast-paced competitions. Hite gives listeners a courtside view of hardwood feats from legendary ballers as they elevate the game with signature moves and lead the way forward for successive generations of players alongside crucial developments, such as the introduction of shot clocks and the Harlem Globetrotters' skillful, exciting play style. This informative production, paired with a warm and assured narration, has appeal for all ages.
(Nonfiction. 9-13)Pub Date: Jan. 13, 2026
Duration: 2 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668654729
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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