Jim Meskimen’s narration begins as quiet and contemplative, self-deprecating and snarky. As the story progresses and the deaf, overweight Wil Halpin makes a friend and tries to solve the mystery of a classmate’s murder, Meskimen gains a hint of joy in his voice. Meskimen makes it clear that although he may be the object of jokes, Halpin is not a victim. He is smart, witty, observant and a really good friend. He also handles the story’s climax, in which the murderer is accused in front of police, ring true. The interactions between Halpin and the hearing world are realistically portrayed and will leave listeners with a new understanding of the deaf. The interview with the author answers many questions about how Berk captured the world of a deaf teen so completely. This is not a book about deafness nor obesity but a good old-fashioned mystery in which sleuthing saves the day.
Young AdultPub Date: Aug. 9, 2011
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780307916976
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Chin’s narration balances a dramatic, fast-moving plot with lush descriptions and poignant historical details.
Katharine Chin masterfully conveys the many tensions of Lucy’s story. Found in a canoe floating to Orcas Island off the coast of Washington state and raised by a kindly benefactor, Lucy has always wondered about her parents and her heritage. She’s planning on heading off to college to make a fresh start—until she comes upon her benefactor’s severed head and is named heir of his estate. Chin’s propulsive narration plunges listeners into Lucy’s search to solve the murder and uncover the secrets of her origin; explain her connection with animals, including orcas; determine whom she truly loves; and find her place in the world.
Chin’s narration balances a dramatic, fast-moving plot with lush descriptions and poignant historical details. (Historical mystery. 12-18)Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs, 22 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668160121
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: yesterday
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 2026
Meskimen drops listeners solidly into the depths of teenage despair and hope in this thrilling, futuristic ride.
Taylor Meskimen channels teenage angst to tell this story of former best friends. Wealthy Madison rules the school, and only special friends warrant an invitation to her exclusive birthday party, held in a virtual-reality world. When social outcast Bree receives an invitation, is it to make amends or to seek revenge? Meskimen hits every heightened emotional note, from the haughty tones of a spoiled queen bee to the wheedling voices of sycophants. She flavors her narration with a perfect blend of reactions that lend authenticity to her performance: scoffs, screeching laughter, and hisses of rage.
Meskimen drops listeners solidly into the depths of teenage despair and hope in this thrilling, futuristic ride. (Thriller. 14-18)Pub Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217280803
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: March 10, 2026
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