While a narration that is both elegant and playful might sound odd, that’s just what esteemed narrator Barbara Rosenblat brings to this work about 26 women who, on first look, carried out unlawful deeds, but might have had other motives. Considering such figures as Bloody Mary I of England; Bonnie Parker; Belle Starr, spy for the Confederacy; and ancient history’s Delilah and Cleopatra, the authors discuss in droll repartee what it is that made them “bad girls.” Rosenblat furthers this banter and questioning of motives. She leaves sentences dangling, draws out phrases with key emphasis, and delivers tongue-in-cheek lines in a deadpan tone. Her clear, clipped elocution is a treat for listeners. Yolen and Stemple narrate their own conversations, which provide interludes between vignettes.
(Collective biography. 12-15)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2014
Duration: 2 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: Live Oak Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In 1832 thirteen-year-old Charlotte Doyle is sailing from Liverpool to Rhode Island to rejoin her family. Shocked to discover that the families who were to have been both guardians and companions will not accompany her, Charlotte embarks on a journey filled with terror and swashbuckling adventure. The first-person narrative makes this Newbery Honor book a wonderful choice for recording. O'Karma's reading, with its hint of cross-gender differentiation, allows the listener to feel as if Charlotte Doyle herself were relating the tale. This story should be particularly alluring to adolescent girls although the fast-paced action and the nautical setting will also appeal to male listeners. Ages 12-adult.
Ages 12+Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Lipica Shah's stirring narration of this YA biography showcases Emma Goldman's unshakable commitment to improving the lives of the oppressed. In 1885, Goldman immigrated to the U.S. from czarist Russia and became an ardent anarchist. A prolific writer and inspirational speaker, she gave hundreds of well-attended speeches each year. When quoting Goldman, Shah exudes the intensity of her quest to elevate America's working class. When quoting from any of the thousands of period newspaper articles about Goldman, Shah mimics their predominantly disapproving tone. Goldman was even imprisoned because of her progressive positions on government, workers' rights, sex, and birth control. Never deterred, Goldman was once considered the most dangerous woman in America.
(Biography. 14-18)Pub Date: Sept. 16, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250415134
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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