Listeners will delight in being back with their friends from NEW KID and hearing about the ups and downs of eighth grade from multiple points of view. Jordan is excited but nervous to be back in school, and Jesus Del Orden’s bright voice matches Jordan’s sweet and observant personality. Drew, compellingly portrayed by Nile Bullock, has an easy time connecting with Jordan, but they both continue to feel uncomfortable about how they are treated by their mostly wealthy white classmates and teachers. Subtle sound effects and lively voices from a full cast help listeners imagine the bustling hallways as Drew and Jordan navigate the minefield of racist microaggressions, colorism, crushes, and rocky friendships. Listeners who love this audio version will want to seek out the graphic novel companion. E.E.C. 2022 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine
(Graphic fiction. 9-14)Pub Date: Jan. 5, 2021
Duration: 2 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780063032057
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Hartsough is well cast in this middle-grade novel.
Sixth grader Margot Stafford is navigating school, family, and a burgeoning interest in art. The perceptive Margot carefully observes those around her and worries about her mom, who suffers from depression and has a concerning new boyfriend. In Eevin Hartsough’s depiction, Margot sounds youthful and reflective, as befits an artistic and caring 12-year-old who is struggling with math as well as with shifting friendships, but who finds new direction working at an art gallery in town. Hartsough capably portrays a full cast of characters, including a vaguely accented teacher; Margot's older brother, Eli; her mom; and a stern neighbor, among others.
Hartsough is well cast in this middle-grade novel. (Fiction. 9-12)Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 28 mins
DD ISBN: 9798898858520
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Aug. 18, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 2026
A listen that will work best as a companion to the print book.
Cindy Kay narrates this first in a planned series. The story unfolds with the first meeting of the Skeleton and the Cat. The friendly Cat disturbs the Skeleton's solitary, peaceful home life, hoping to make a friend. Kay employs a perky, lighthearted voice for the Cat. He tries jokes, food, and dancing to make friends with the Skeleton, who does not joke, eat, or dance. She is aloof but never sounds unkind or impatient. As opposites often do, they become friends. Kay's narration is quiet, slow, and comforting, but unfortunately, some of the humor is visual and doesn’t translate to the audiobook.
A listen that will work best as a companion to the print book. (Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Duration: 9 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063577213
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: July 21, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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