His mother six months dead, his father locked in emotional denial, his legs covered in itchy, red blisters, 12-year-old Rob Horton has stuffed his feelings into the suitcase he packed after his mother's funeral for the move to the Kentucky Star Motel in Lister, Florida. Not until he finds the caged tiger in the woods, not until he is given the keys to the cage by sleazy Mr. Beauchamp, not until he meets fellow outsider Sistine Bailey does Rob consider opening that suitcase and resuming an emotional life. Dylan Baker effectively captures the Southern bray of the bullying Threemonger brothers; the false sincerity and concern of the principal, Mr. Felmer, who frees Rob from the necessity of school; the gentle, gravelly bossiness of Rob's only friend, Willie Mae, the chambermaid; and the controlled pain of Rob himself. Baker takes the listener on Rob's journey--unlocking the tiger's cage, opening the suitcase, reclaiming his life.
Ages 8+Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2001
Duration: 2 hrs, 15 mins
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This powerful story will stay with listeners long after the last word has been spoken.
Aria Mia Loberti masters the voice of seventh grader Roxie, expressing the jumble of emotions she feels as she struggles to fit in and find acceptance as her unique self. She was bullied at her old school because her parents are blind. Will a fresh start in a new town lead to friends who will see Roxie for who she is? Loberti also gives supporting characters unique voices. She conveys little brother Theo’s excitement, classmate Quinn’s superior attitude, and the wisdom of Charlie, a boy who also has blind parents. Jeff Ebner is outstanding as Nash, Penny’s guide dog, narrating chapters from his perspective and expressing his patience and insight.
This powerful story will stay with listeners long after the last word has been spoken. (Fiction. 9-13)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 7 hrs, 41 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217412556
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Aug. 4, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 2026
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears.
Joshua Quinn narrates this short book featuring Waffles, a friendly dog who wants a hug, and his haughty housemate, Julius the cat. Quinn gives each a fitting voice—eager and goofy for Waffles, slow and somewhat disdainful for Julius. The two interact in typical cat and dog fashion. Classic cartoon-style sound effects accompany Waffles' attempts to hug his friend. Boings, zings, cymbal crashes, howling, meowing, and more punctuate the music and narration. Julius is not interested in hugs. After a day of trying, Waffles finally settles down for a nap to the sound of a music box lullaby. A tired Julius snuggles in beside him.
The combination of sound effects and Quinn's exaggerated character voices make this animation for the ears. (Picture book. 3-7)Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 7 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250443540
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: July 7, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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