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
A thoughtful and surprisingly exciting real-life adventure tale about survival and community.
In June 2023, an unknown person abandoned four pet rabbits in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Heights Park. Over the following weeks, neighbors of all ages came together to track and trap the bunnies. Narrator Amy Jensen seamlessly blends humor with a more serious tone as she guides listeners through the extensive rescue operation as well as the origins of the park, the history of rabbit domestication, and the backgrounds of the folks who spent long, tiring days crawling through ivy and scrub to bring the rabbits to safety. Jensen’s cheerful, child-friendly tones are informative and straightforward, including when she details the highs and lows of animal rescue beyond the immediate thrill of success.
A thoughtful and surprisingly exciting real-life adventure tale about survival and community. (Nonfiction. 8-12)Pub Date: Sept. 8, 2026
Duration: 3 hrs, 20 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668659199
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Aug. 24, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 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: Aug. 4, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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