Amielynn Abellera's tones and pacing demonstrate the discomfort of 17-year-old Filipina-American Corazon (Cory) Tagubio. At school she's not interested in her peers' chatter about boys; at home she sometimes feels ignored by her mother and father. When an accident puts her father in a coma, Abellera voices Cory's despair, which is relieved by the satisfying connection she feels when her history teacher returns the love she feels. That moment is shattered when her mother sees Cory in an embrace with her teacher and sends her to live with her half-brother in the Philippines. Abellera reveals Cory's deep sensitivity as she learns of her parents' hidden past and strengthens both faraway family bonds and belief in herself. The Taglish words threaded throughout the text increase the musicality and authenticity of this story.
(Fiction. 14-18)Pub Date: Oct. 20, 2020
Duration: 9 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780063033269
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Karla Serrato's authentic accent adds to her presentation of the difficult choices faced by two teenagers dealing with corporate greed and its associated damage. Paloma decides to enter a scholarship contest with her ex-boyfriend Julio by investigating the harm the business giant Selva is inflicting on their Southern California community. Winning would provide each their greatest desire, providing Julio tuition and Paloma the national publication of her writing. Serrato's thoughtful narration ably depicts the teens, their families, and the twists in their stories. An accompanying map and afterword provide context to the important story behind Ixta's writing. A relevant and engrossing tale as the students uncover the ecological and political ramifications.
(Fiction. 13-18)Pub Date: Feb. 3, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063287945
Publisher: Harper 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
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