Four loosely related kids share different combinations of absent mothers and fathers as they quite capably raise themselves on the beach of a desert island. Narrator Caitlin Kelly enthusiastically recounts their adventures and misadventures as they try to find a house to replace the too small car they’ve been living in. Kim, Kimo, Peppa, and Toby each are given unique voices that mirror their personalities. Kelly’s delivery is full of energy and expert pacing, adding nuance to the humor and giving the listener plenty of reasons to cheer for these quick-witted, resilient kids. The PDF file of a map and illustrations enhances the listening experience, letting listeners fully enter the world of the amazing Fitzgerald-Trout family.
. (Fantasy. 8-12)Pub Date: May 10, 2016
Duration: 4 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781478909347
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Live Oak Media recently caught our attention with this new read-along book and cassette program. We listened first, and were so delighted we couldn't wait to get the book. The picture book made the experience even better, but the audio recordings was strong and vibrant by itself. THE GARDENER, Sarah Stewart's Depression-era story of a young girl sent to live with her Uncle Jim in the city has a sweet, wistful quality with narration alone, but coupled with David Small's soft-edged pencil illustration, it's a total delight. The reading is repeated on both sides of the tape, one with and without page-turning signals.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: N/A
Publisher: Live Oak Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An audiobook that’s sure to spark chuckles of recognition in children and adults alike.
The incomparable Sedaris is always a pleasure to listen to. In a departure from his usual humorous writing for adults, here he narrates his children’s picture book about a selfish sister who claims everything—from the stove to her granddad to her brother’s kidney—for herself. Sedaris’s narration is dramatic and fun, and he adds a slight quaver to his voice for effect. With its rhymes and cadence, the writing is reminiscent of Dr. Seuss’. There are both tantrums and pathos, and the ending invites listeners to consider the consequences of the sister's greediness.
An audiobook that’s sure to spark chuckles of recognition in children and adults alike. (Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Duration: 3 mins
DD ISBN: 9798898852559
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: April 21, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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