Austin Ku brings a measure of gentleness and contemplation to his narration of Gus Lee's groundbreaking 1991 novel. Seven-year-old Kai Ting's family fled Communist China, leaving behind their considerable wealth and status in favor of a modest home in San Francisco's Panhandle neighborhood. Kai lives a sheltered life, but his mother's sudden death and his father's subsequent remarriage vault him into a bewilderingly violent world. In measured, somewhat halting, tones, Ku describes Kai's difficulties surviving neighborhood bullies and his shockingly abusive stepmother. Although Ku's portrayal of Kai's awkwardness and frailty is spot-on, his depictions of Kai's diverse neighbors and friends are less convincing. Ku allows Lee's powerful story to speak for itself, but listeners may hope for a more emotionally resonant listening experience.
Pub Date: Nov. 2, 2021
Duration: 13 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593509388
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Escape on a thrilling adventure with Soneela Nankani and Andrew Eiden as they narrate this suspenseful romance. A year has passed since Simi Chopra, her assorted crew, and Jack Danger pulled off a lucrative diamond heist. Now, the Chicago Mafia boss is demanding that the jewels be returned, so Simi gets the team back together. Nankani delivers an expressive performance that emphasizes Simi's conflict between her passion for Jack and the mission. Her distinct character voices keep the listener fully immersed. Eiden's lively tone gives Jack a subtle flair and confidence that make him easy to forgive and to love.
Pub Date: Aug. 20, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593907467
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This is not a story about guns, but about blue pearls. Gerald Browne takes us to the Pacific Ocean and the world of pearl divers and natural gems and mixes in mystery, intrigue and suspense. Barry Bostwick portrays the characters in one voice, varying his intonation slightly for the Asian personalities. His reading style is very smooth, evidence of preparation and interest in the story. 18mm Blues is abridged well, collecting the important elements of the story. Unobtrusive music indicates the end of each side. Disappear into the mystery of the Far East and one of its most beautiful commodities.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1993
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Audio Renaissance
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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