On the afternoon of October 24th, 1901, seeking fame and fortune to last into her old age, widow Annie Edson Taylor, a 62-year-old charm school teacher, plunged over Niagara Falls nestled inside a carefully crafted oak barrel. Angela Goethals’s deliberate yet leisurely narration lets all the aspects of Taylor’s exploit resonate—from the design and building of the barrel to Annie’s growing apprehension as the falls approach. The meticulous preparation that led up to the day is thoroughly detailed in both Van Allsburg’s trademark sepia illustrations and carefully researched text. Goethals’s tone and clipped diction present Taylor’s life matter-of-factly. This title is best suited to middle grade listeners who will benefit from having the book available to fully appreciate the interplay of story and illustrations.
Ages 8+Pub Date: 2011
Duration: 15 mins
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Much has been written on Jackie Robinson's groundbreaking career and legacy, but it's nice to see a well-done synopsis covering the highlights of his life for young people. Narrator JD Jackson carries the story as he conveys the importance of Robinson's life without overdramatization. It covers Robinson's growing up, time in the Army, and deliberate recruitment for the purpose of breaking Major League baseball's color barrier. Jackson gives various players, coaches, and individuals--including Robinson's wife, Rachel--slight accents. His steady, animated narration reflects the well-researched book and is sure to hold the attention of both young and older listeners.
(Biography. 10-13)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2017
Duration: 2 hrs, 15 mins
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Classical music provides an enjoyable background to the story of Cecilia Chiang. She first watched cooking in her family home in China and then was introduced to its varied cuisine as she crossed the country during WWII. Later, she immigrated to the US. Cindy Kay's soft voice transmits Cecilia's dedication to the dishes she loves and grows stronger and more determined as she finds herself wanting to share them. The accuracy of Kay's accent and the descriptions of dishes as Chiang opens San Francisco's Mandarin, the first restaurant to treat Chinese food as fine dining, awakens listeners' taste buds, provides authenticity, and creates appreciation for Chiang's accomplishments.
(Picture-book biography. 5-10)Pub Date: April 29, 2025
Duration: 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668647394
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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