A little magic and a road trip reunite ex-best friends, whose quick banter and chemistry is performed by the highly skilled Natalie Naudus. Ellie and Jack belong to Palo Alto's magic-aware community. After a mishap they're forced to embark on a road trip together. Ellie's perception of Jack is deeply rooted in their shared childhood memories; Naudus brings lightness to those joyful moments, which abruptly ended when Jack's mother passed away. The excitement in Naudus's voice portrays the wonder and awe the teens experience on the road as they explore magical attractions and rediscover their lost relationship. Naudus pulls out several delightfully fun voices for the magical shop owners they meet along the way. An enchanting performance fit for this magical teen romance.
(Romance. 12-18)Pub Date: July 5, 2022
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250854803
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Desean Terry delivers a touching performance of this reimagining of "The Great Gatsby," in which the protagonists are gay Black prep school students. Aspiring journalist Nick Carrington leaves Oklahoma to begin school at Harlem's West Egg Academy. Out of his element, Nick keeps his gay identity a closely held secret, but love interest Jay Gatsby Jr.--the academy founder's son--openly embraces his own gay identity. As they write letters to each other, each more daring and affectionate than the last, they receive threats that their budding relationship will be exposed in the school newspaper. Terry clearly presents every piece of dialogue that warrants an emotional charge and adds subtle suspense to his straightforward tone when needed. Terry's narration is always on the money.
(Historical fiction. 13-18)Pub Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063312517
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A young adult holiday story is told through the perspectives of Dominique, portrayed by Eric Lockley, and Andy, portrayed by Khaya Fraites. On New Year's Day, Andy wakes up in a bathtub and then discovers her car is missing. The only person who can help her find it is Iris, whose family is responsible for the closing of Andy's family's store. While Andy and Iris search for the car, Andy's cousin, Dominique, prepares for a modeling gig that could change his whole life. This novel explores themes of gentrification, queer identity, and friendship. Fraites' expressive narration matches Andy's bright personality, and Lockley captures Dominique's youthful spirit. The audiobook features podcast segments with unique sound effects and pleasant music between segments.
(Romance. 14-18)Pub Date: Dec. 2, 2025
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781250415141
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Follow
Popular in this Genre
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
