Narrator Nate Begle does authors Patterson and Grabenstein proud. He infuses their hero, an escaped blue lab rat named Isaiah, with an exuberant, inquisitive, and persistent personality--surely what the authors had in mind. Isaiah explores the human world as he searches for his family, all the while offering insight into humankind and animals. While listeners initially may find Begle's mouse a bit squeaky and artificial, as Isaiah's quest to find his 96 siblings progresses, Begle's register lowers, making him a more convincing mouse. Isaiah's love of words and ability to talk, type, and orate are sure to win over listeners. Equally charming is Hailey, a human Isaiah befriends. Supporting characters have distinctive voices as well--especially the brown non-lab mouse, Mikayla, and the bumbling caretaker of the lab, Mr. Brophy.
(Fantasy. 8-12)Pub Date: Dec. 12, 2016
Duration: 4 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781478940104
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears.
Joshua Quinn narrates this short book featuring Waffles, a friendly dog who wants a hug, and his haughty housemate, Julius the cat. Quinn gives each a fitting voice—eager and goofy for Waffles, slow and somewhat disdainful for Julius. The two interact in typical cat and dog fashion. Classic cartoon-style sound effects accompany Waffles' attempts to hug his friend. Boings, zings, cymbal crashes, howling, meowing, and more punctuate the music and narration. Julius is not interested in hugs. After a day of trying, Waffles finally settles down for a nap to the sound of a music box lullaby. A tired Julius snuggles in beside him.
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears. (Picture book. 3-7)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 7 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250443540
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: July 7, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2026
Kelly’s kaleidoscopic voice draws listeners in.
Caitlin Kelly narrates the start of a new children’s fantasy animal series from a powerhouse author. After losing their home to a mysterious fire, cat sisters Willow and Luna stumble upon secretive animals with the ability to communicate with them despite being different species. This means that the sisters are “attuned” and have magical abilities. Luna can control fire, but Willow struggles to realize her own gift. Kelly easily differentiates a wide cast of animal characters. And as Willow and Luna witness their new world clash with human witches, Kelly adds emotional intensity that matches the highly dramatic situations the animals find themselves in.
Kelly’s kaleidoscopic voice draws listeners in. (Animal fantasy. 8-12)Pub Date: May 19, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 55 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063449558
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: July 14, 2026
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