Narrator Ramon de Ocampo gets interpersonal relationships just right when describing the upheavals that erupt when 12 seventh graders from Fawn Creek (aka Yawn Creek), Louisiana, meet the newly arrived, mysterious Orchid Mason. Orchid, born in New York City and recently hailing from Paris, regales them with stories from all over the world until her true identity is revealed. De Ocampo differentiates the many alternating perspectives, deepening several through their responses to Orchid. Grayson, referred to by his brother as "Gayson," grows into his own gender individuality. Shy Dorothy becomes Deedee and speaks up to bullies. De Ocampo even portrays the regret of bullying Janie and strengthens themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and hope.
(Fiction. 8-12)Pub Date: March 8, 2022
Duration: 6 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063219809
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Hartsough is well cast in this middle-grade novel.
Sixth grader Margot Stafford is navigating school, family, and a burgeoning interest in art. The perceptive Margot carefully observes those around her and worries about her mom, who suffers from depression and has a concerning new boyfriend. In Eevin Hartsough’s depiction, Margot sounds youthful and reflective, as befits an artistic and caring 12-year-old who is struggling with math as well as with shifting friendships, but who finds new direction working at an art gallery in town. Hartsough capably portrays a full cast of characters, including a vaguely accented teacher; Margot's older brother, Eli; her mom; and a stern neighbor, among others.
Hartsough is well cast in this middle-grade novel. (Fiction. 9-12)Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 28 mins
DD ISBN: 9798898858520
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Aug. 18, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 2026
A listen that will work best as a companion to the print book.
Cindy Kay narrates this first in a planned series. The story unfolds with the first meeting of the Skeleton and the Cat. The friendly Cat disturbs the Skeleton's solitary, peaceful home life, hoping to make a friend. Kay employs a perky, lighthearted voice for the Cat. He tries jokes, food, and dancing to make friends with the Skeleton, who does not joke, eat, or dance. She is aloof but never sounds unkind or impatient. As opposites often do, they become friends. Kay's narration is quiet, slow, and comforting, but unfortunately, some of the humor is visual and doesn’t translate to the audiobook.
A listen that will work best as a companion to the print book. (Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Duration: 9 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063577213
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: July 21, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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