This is an outstanding example of an audio performance that far exceeds the reading of the print book by itself. As fans of author/illustrator Laurie Keller know, her pages explode well beyond the text—asides abound, as well as subplots and humorous wordplay—all in small illustrations that encircle the main ones. Her books beg to be acted out with the richness of multiple voices and musical accompaniment. Hooray for Jon Carroll and company! In this second adventure, the 50 states prepare for a talent show. The story bustles with preparations for the big night. Scenes depict intriguing relationships between various states, the drama of stage fright, acts in rehearsal—all culminating in a spectacular performance. Chuckle along with the audience and—despite all the shenanigans—learn facts about our nation!
Ages 6+Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2009
Duration: 18 mins
Publisher: Weston Woods Studios
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Lemony Snicket, who became known for challenging listeners’ vocabularies in his Series of Unfortunate Events, chooses 13 seemingly random words and arranges them into the story of a “despondent” bird and a dog who tries to cheer his friend by visiting a “haberdashery” to buy a hat with “panache.” Michael Emerson’s intonations and phrasing allow listeners to picture characters and settings even without Maira Kalman's illustrations. He encourages listeners to savor the sounds of words as the author intended. Who wouldn’t buy a hat from a breathy sales-baby who describes “panache” as “a kind of verve or swagger”? In an amazing artistic interpretation, Snicket’s final word, “mezzo-soprano,” becomes an opera of the book, created by real-life composer Nico Muhly.
Ages 8+Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2010
Duration: 6 mins
DD ISBN: 9781443404433
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Author and narrator Enrique Flores-Galbis is a master of duality in this nuanced story of the Cuban revolution. His writing and narration are superb. In both, his humble style of storytelling is arresting. When revolution comes to Cuba, Julian is just a boy. He doesn’t even know what a revolution is. In leaving Cuba and losing his family, Julian finds new ways in which he’s both vulnerable and strong. Flores-Galbis’s voice embodies the contradictions of Julian’s experience. We hear that vulnerability in a soft, almost hesitant, voice; underneath is a quiet confidence. The pacing ebbs and flows as naturally as the tide between Havana and Miami as Julian figures out what is right and determines to do his part to help.
Ages 10+Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2013
Duration: 6 hrs, 15 mins
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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