In this coming-of-age story, narrator John Kroft introduces Conor McRae, an endearing 12-year-old whose world revolves around his Doberman, Sinbad, and ice hockey. Kroft is an impeccable storyteller who excels at creating Japanese, Russian, and Eastern European accents. His best creation is Conor's neighbor, Mr. Reynolds, who utters, "Don't insult me" when Conor washes his car for free. Other standouts are Conor's hockey buddies: talented and thoughtful Korean-American Jae-won and Lucas, who gently introduces prayer into Conor's life. Listeners will feel like good friends who are privy to Conor's thoughts, relationship with his dad, and decision-making process, particularly after Sinbad needs costly cancer treatments. Kids facing difficult decisions will be inspired and motivated after hearing this spirited story.
(Fiction. 10-14)Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2018
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781501982859
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 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
Kelly’s kaleidoscopic voice draws listeners in.
Caitlin Kelly narrates the start of a new children’s fantasy animal series from a powerhouse author. After losing their home to a mysterious fire, cat sisters Willow and Luna stumble upon secretive animals with the ability to communicate with them despite being different species. This means that the sisters are “attuned” and have magical abilities. Luna can control fire, but Willow struggles to realize her own gift. Kelly easily differentiates a wide cast of animal characters. And as Willow and Luna witness their new world clash with human witches, Kelly adds emotional intensity that matches the highly dramatic situations the animals find themselves in.
Kelly’s kaleidoscopic voice draws listeners in. (Animal fantasy. 8-12)Pub Date: May 19, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 55 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063449558
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: July 14, 2026
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