Christopher Gebauer narrates this charming yet heartbreaking story about the lighter side of death and dying. When 12-year-old Stanly finds a finger bone in his backyard, he's delighted to think he may win the Young Discoverer's Competition and make his absentee father proud enough of him to return. But as the bone grows into a full-fledged skeleton--which appears in some photographs donning a black velvet cloak and scythe--he begins to suspect it may be connected to his younger sister Miren's mysterious illness. Gebauer's playful quality lends itself to this audiobook. Even as the story grows increasingly ominous, author Ventrella manages to weave a touch of whimsy into every aspect of it.
(Fiction. 9-12)Pub Date: Sept. 26, 2017
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781338191653
Publisher: Scholastic Audiobooks
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A heartfelt audiobook for the entire family to enjoy.
With a youthful voice, Jeff Ebner brings much emotion to this realistic middle-grade novel. Ten-year-old Nathan Savage is consumed with worry that the gigantic pile of trash across the street from his home is about to collapse. He’s even more worried that his father, who works at the top of said pile, is in extreme danger. It’s up to Nathan to devise a flawless plan to save the day. Ebner’s fast-paced, energetic narration moves the action along, engaging young listeners to the very last word.
A heartfelt audiobook for the entire family to enjoy. (Fiction. 10-14)Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 4 hrs, 55 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217280445
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: yesterday
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 2026
A solid production with moments of real tension and conflict.
Skillful narration breathes life into Newbery-winner Keller’s tale of middle-grade angst, fate, friendship, climate change, and social media. In chapters told from the viewpoints of Nomi, Vi, and Arthur, each narrator delivers a nuanced, emotional, well-paced performance. Annie Q. Riegel imbues shy Vi with hurt and innocence as she experiences her first crush and regrets a poor choice. Sara Matsui-Colby injects focus and self-assurance into Nomi’s obsession with a book of “prophesies.” Eddy Lee captures Arthur’s reserved nature, which restrains him from supporting Vi and expressing his feelings for Nomi. The poetic prophecies of the Greek chorus, warmly delivered by Emily Woo Zeller, convey details that are unknown to the characters.
A solid production with moments of real tension and conflict. (Fiction. 10-14)Pub Date: March 3, 2026
Duration: 6 hrs, 3 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217156979
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: March 25, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 2026
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