Henning Mankell, Swedish author of the outstanding Inspector Wallender mystery series, turns to a young audience is this unusual coming-of-age story. Twelve-year-old Joel has miraculously escaped injury after being run over by a bus. To demonstrate his gratitude, he feels he must perform a good deed. Narrator Francis Greenslade warmly translates youthful joy, disappointment, innocence, and frustration as Joel confronts adults and bullies. His perspective on seemingly illogical adult behavior is hilarious yet childlike. Greenslade perfectly conveys Joel's fantasy life as he becomes a detective and thinks of himself as "Geronimo" Gustaffson. Joel's simple act of revenge on someone who mocked his best friend is priceless. A richly rewarding listening experience for those of all ages.
Young AdultPub Date: Jan. 22, 2008
Duration: 5 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: Bolinda Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Through Andromeda’s story, young listeners will learn more about the justice system and their rights.
Fifth grader Andromeda Diaz is concerned about her friend, Benji, who has been accused of stealing a valuable watch and is now facing charges. Andi, the daughter of two public defenders, doesn’t believe he committed the crime, and she works to figure out what really happened. Author Almanza, who was herself a public defender, performs her own work enthusiastically. Her narration style is casual, at times not quite nailing the rhythm of the text. While she’s not a professional narrator, her knowledge of the legal process shines through.
Through Andromeda’s story, young listeners will learn more about the justice system and their rights. (Mystery. 8-12)Pub Date: Sept. 8, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 11 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217352364
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: tomorrow
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 2026
The plot, performances, and production are funny and engaging and make Pedro’s world feel vibrant and full.
This full cast audio rendition of a graphic memoir conveys the energy and brightness of that visual medium. The story recounts Pedro’s challenging but hopeful and humorous childhood as a migrant farmworker in the U.S., growing up with dreams of a life in the arts. Sound effects and musical interludes punctuate the narrative. Plates rattle as an earthquake shakes a restaurant, and birds sing in the bushes on a berry farm as Pedro’s family works. The animated performances by this large cast, especially the boyish voice of Oscar Emmanuel Fabela as Pedro, are perfect to hook preteen listeners—and adults, too.
The plot, performances, and production are funny and engaging and make Pedro’s world feel vibrant and full. (Graphic memoir. 10-16)Pub Date: Sept. 1, 2026
Duration: 3 hrs, 38 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217349708
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: tomorrow
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 2026
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