Inspired by her family history in China and the U.S., Gish Jen's novel is narrated with nuance, emotional depth, and clarity of purpose by Jen Zhao. Her pitch-perfect performance enhances this multigenerational story, which revolves around a challenging mother-daughter relationship. Retaining her traditional Chinese values, Agnes, the author's mother, immigrates to the U.S. in 1947 to study psychology. Witnessing her daughter's desire for independence and career over family duty, Agnes calls her daughter a "bad bad girl." Zhao immerses listeners in this absorbing audiobook, highlighting period details while creating full-bodied portraits of a multiplicity of diverse characters. Zhao's immersion in this family story is so complete that it often sounds as if she's narrating her own family saga.
Pub Date: Oct. 21, 2025
Duration: 12 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217165537
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this sequel to Terms of Endearment, Larry McMurtry brings back Aurora Greenway, who is now dealing with her various lovers and friends plus three grown grandchildren with a variety of problems. He presents a tale of growing up and growing old which is bittersweet and funny. Narrator Ivey uses a slight east Texas accent which authenticates the setting of the story. Each character's voice has a slightly different inflection to differentiate it. It all works together well. As you listen, you feel as if you might actually be in Houston sharing the lives of these resilient and refreshing people.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 20 hrs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
To Fred Fairly, a Cambridge Fellow, truth is everything. What then is the truth about the woman he finds beside him when he awakens? English conventions and mores of 1912 Cambridge are central to this period piece. Callow's wonderful voice and interpretation make accents, personalities and gender come alive, and help make sense of the frequent time and character shifts. His delivery enhances a most clever "choose your own ending."
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 5 hrs
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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