An unobtrusive narrator, Forest Whitaker has a firm and evenly modulated voice that underscores the Nelson Mandela’s determination throughout his life—from his days as a student to his twenty-seven year imprisonment and then his presidency of South Africa. The only one chosen to attend school at an early age, Mandela moved to Johannesburg for his education and witnessed South Africa succumbing to Apartheid government. From that point he became a champion of both freedom and reconciliation: “We must forget our terrible past . . . and walk the last mile to freedom.” Author Kadir Nelson delivers his author’s note, which provides additional details of Mandela’s life. The production concludes with an interview in which the author talks about his life, art, and Mandela’s importance, as well as his conviction that children should see themselves in the artwork of a picture book. A.R. 2014 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine
(Picture book/biography. 5-8)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2013
Duration: 10 mins
Publisher: Weston Woods Studios
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 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
© 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.
