In this fictionalized biography of Malcom X's young adult life, written by his daughter, narrator Landon Woodson brings deep emotion to a man whose youth was fraught with injustice. Woodson transitions smoothly between Malcom's childhood/teens and his early 20s, evoking both the desperation and hope of a young Black man who could no longer stand for the unjust treatment of his people. Through vivid depictions of his brutal incarceration and the historically accurate use of racial slurs, Woodson expresses the emotions of men who were treated unjustly, bringing their shared humanity to the forefront. An interview with Shabazz and Woodson at the end of the audiobook provides added perspective to both story and narration.
(Biographical novel. 12-18)Pub Date: Jan. 5, 2021
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781250619105
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Desean Terry delivers a touching performance of this reimagining of "The Great Gatsby," in which the protagonists are gay Black prep school students. Aspiring journalist Nick Carrington leaves Oklahoma to begin school at Harlem's West Egg Academy. Out of his element, Nick keeps his gay identity a closely held secret, but love interest Jay Gatsby Jr.--the academy founder's son--openly embraces his own gay identity. As they write letters to each other, each more daring and affectionate than the last, they receive threats that their budding relationship will be exposed in the school newspaper. Terry clearly presents every piece of dialogue that warrants an emotional charge and adds subtle suspense to his straightforward tone when needed. Terry's narration is always on the money.
(Historical fiction. 13-18)Pub Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063312517
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners will be drawn in by Stevens’ skilled narration.
Eileen Stevens delivers an exceptional telling of this story of fatal curses, sea creatures, and what it takes to protect one’s family. Nineteen-year-old heroine Annie lives in the city of Kirkrell, where her family runs a whaling company. She must race to save her family’s legacy from the ancient finfolk who live in the dark waters surrounding Kirkrell and menace the sailors hunting magical whales. Unbeknownst to her, Annie’s fiancé August has an evil plan to take over her parents’ lifework, and the more he tries to help and comfort her, the more she learns about his deception.
Listeners will be drawn in by Stevens’ skilled narration. (Fantasy. 13-18)Pub Date: Nov. 11, 2025
Duration: 9 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250415752
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: April 1, 2026
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