An inspiring story of how one man used his own experience to help others and accomplish something extraordinary for everyone.
Narrator Janina Edwards uses a deliberate pace and soothing voice to introduce the man who invented the audiobook, Dr. Robert B. Irwin. With gentle enthusiasm, Edwards guides young listeners through Irwin's heartwarming life story. Irwin became blind at a young age, and sound effects of bird song, crashing waves, and footsteps emphasize how much he loved hearing the natural world around him. He dreamed of a better way for people with vision impairment to read books, and he helped create the first recorded books that people could listen to on special players. Author Lacika focuses on Irwin’s tenacity and his honorable character.
An inspiring story of how one man used his own experience to help others and accomplish something extraordinary for everyone. (Picture-book biography. 4-9)Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Duration: 14 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668192962
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2026
Much has been written on Jackie Robinson's groundbreaking career and legacy, but it's nice to see a well-done synopsis covering the highlights of his life for young people. Narrator JD Jackson carries the story as he conveys the importance of Robinson's life without overdramatization. It covers Robinson's growing up, time in the Army, and deliberate recruitment for the purpose of breaking Major League baseball's color barrier. Jackson gives various players, coaches, and individuals--including Robinson's wife, Rachel--slight accents. His steady, animated narration reflects the well-researched book and is sure to hold the attention of both young and older listeners.
(Biography. 10-13)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2017
Duration: 2 hrs, 15 mins
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Classical music provides an enjoyable background to the story of Cecilia Chiang. She first watched cooking in her family home in China and then was introduced to its varied cuisine as she crossed the country during WWII. Later, she immigrated to the US. Cindy Kay's soft voice transmits Cecilia's dedication to the dishes she loves and grows stronger and more determined as she finds herself wanting to share them. The accuracy of Kay's accent and the descriptions of dishes as Chiang opens San Francisco's Mandarin, the first restaurant to treat Chinese food as fine dining, awakens listeners' taste buds, provides authenticity, and creates appreciation for Chiang's accomplishments.
(Picture-book biography. 5-10)Pub Date: April 29, 2025
Duration: 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668647394
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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