Nancy Wu expresses the youth, verve, and mercurial feelings of Uma as she wonders at the number of stars in the huge, cold sky. Gabi Swiatkowska’s illustrations show the small girl dwarfed by the celestial immensity she is just beginning to appreciate. Uma begins a quest to discover what infinity is by asking peers and elders their views. Wu’s narration blends beautifully with the story’s sound effects and musical accents, and she successfully differentiates characters. In particular, she measures Uma’s growing confusion and frustration as her wish to understand becomes more emotional than intellectual. Uma triumphs in the end, determining a stance on infinity that comforts her, and Wu voices her satisfaction. The author reads an afterword that includes quotes given and read by young children. Together, the audio and print book encourage curiosity and discussion.
(Picture book. 5-8)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2015
Duration: 12 mins
Publisher: Live Oak Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this clever parody of how language developed, Brooke displays his master storytelling skills. He is adept at making Mog and the other prehistoric characters of his imagination become real. Drawing the characters out with preverbal grunts and other suggestive intonation, he makes it easy for listeners to enter the world of the caveman, which is hilariously described. Brooke's presentation is energetic and true to the unconventional humor and innuendo used throughout the story. Social satire on complex economic and political systems is brought down to its simplest form. This audiobook is a true treat for children, and its focus on the wonder of language will interest linguistic and grammar aficionados. Included at the end is an enlightening interview with the author.
Ages 10+Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2001
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This love letter to Hawaiian culture, performed by Barrie Kealoha, follows a girl raised with hula and ancestral pride. The reprises of "what hula taught her" add structure to an otherwise thin plot. Kealoha fluidly delivers the vocabulary of her culture that are peppered throughout the English rhymes. Her soothing voice adds a lullaby quality that is perfect for young children. Slight pauses alert the listener when she reaches the end of each page, making this production a perfect companion for the listener who has the book in hand. Experiencing this audiobook without looking at the vibrant pictures would yield only half the experience for the audience.
(Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: Feb. 28, 2025
Duration: 8 mins
DD ISBN: 9781666688696
Publisher: Dreamscape
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.
