Narrator Robin Miles uses a unique cadence to fit this short, lyrical history of the Africans and their descendants who were brought by force to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade. Loosely rhyming, the story's audible backbone is Robin Miles's perfect pacing and well-placed emphasis. Her tone rises and falls as through generations, wars, births, deaths, and joys, the listener hears history and the repeated phrase: "the people remember." The "people" are the many proud tribes and nations of Africa and generations of their children. Through their history, the listener learns the reason for the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Ibi Zoboi reads her author's note explaining her inspired pairing of Kwanzaa and African-American history. A printed timeline and note are included. Suitable for listening year-round.
(Picture book. 7-adult)Pub Date: Sept. 28, 2021
Duration: 24 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063226784
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An engaging performance by Cary Hite enlivens this accessible history of basketball for young listeners, with a focus on the men's game and an "overtime" section devoted to the women's. Hite narrates with relish and an audible appreciation for the sport's evolution from a glorified game of hot potato to today's fast-paced competitions. Hite gives listeners a courtside view of hardwood feats from legendary ballers as they elevate the game with signature moves and lead the way forward for successive generations of players alongside crucial developments, such as the introduction of shot clocks and the Harlem Globetrotters' skillful, exciting play style. This informative production, paired with a warm and assured narration, has appeal for all ages.
(Nonfiction. 9-13)Pub Date: Jan. 13, 2026
Duration: 2 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668654729
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Nekia Renee Martin guides listeners through a surprisingly comprehensive account of 19th-century African American resistance. Despite the title, the chronological territory covered ranges well beyond abolition and the Civil War to Reconstruction and the beginnings of Jim Crow. Martin's strong yet musical narration introduces youngsters to such touch points as the slave trade, the Underground Railroad, the Dred Scott decision, Black soldiers in the Union Army, the Freedmen's Bureau, and more. Kids will meet a panoply of notable Black individuals, including journalists, inventors, statesmen, and activists. There's so much information that the audiobook has a hodgepodge feel. Martin's steady cadence helps keep listeners oriented to this serviceable introduction to African American history.
(Nonfiction. 10-14)Pub Date: Dec. 9, 2025
Duration: 4 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217157105
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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