A full cast of talented narrators taps into the darkly magical atmosphere of Bardugo’s graphic novel prequel to the Shadow and Bone trilogy. Primary narrator Ben Barnes depicts the villainous Darkling when he was known as Eryk, a young teen who hungered for companionship and stability. Eryk and his mother find refuge in a remote mountain village, where they are safe as long as they conceal Eryk's unique powers. With a richly resonant voice, Barnes sympathetically portrays Eryk’s desire for acceptance while also hinting at his potential for ruthlessness. Supporting narrators give voice to a wide range of villagers, from irrepressible children to battle-hardened elders. An evocative soundscape, incorporating everything from the clip-clopping of horses’ hooves to the sounds of the night, further enhances this spellbinding audio.
(Graphic fantasy. 12-18)Pub Date: Sept. 27, 2022
Duration: 1 hr
DD ISBN: 9781250819123
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Listeners are invited to venture once again into the magical worlds of Neverland, Wonderland, and Oz in this epic audio adventure. Sophie Amoss voices Alice, her volume low and her tone detached, creating a distinct image of a disenchanted girl. Kristen DiMercurio voices level-headed Dorothy, her tones evoking images of an all-American girl whose offhanded wit is quite endearing. Wendy is characterized by Brittany Pressley with an ever-optimistic ring to her words, an impeccable British accent, and an upbeat tempo that never wavers despite the girls' growing misfortunes. Together with a full cast, these narrators bring Andy Weir's graphic novel to life for audiobook listeners of all ages to enjoy.
(Fantasy. 12-adult)Pub Date: July 9, 2019
Duration: 1 hr, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593102879
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Praise and controversy precede this powerful story of a boy confronting the hidden truth about his futuristic society. Winner of the 1994 Newbery Award, Lowry’s story sparks emotion and response from adults and children alike. This is a compelling prospect for family listening. Initially Rifkin’s voice seems too regional to portray the characters of this utopian/dystopian world, but he convincingly conveys the anticipation of the coming-of-age ceremony of Jonas and his friends. As the meaning of Jonas’ selection as “Receiver of Memory” unfolds, Rifkin’s characterizations become more powerful. Although the story drives the presentation, Rifkin’s juxtaposition of the young boy and the old Giver has tremendous effect. His voice for the Giver becomes increasingly weary and strained while Jonas’ gains strength. Sharing this audiobook in a family or a classroom offers a valuable opportunity to respond to and discuss Lowry’s moving novel.
(Fiction. 12-16)Pub Date: Feb. 27, 2001
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780553751376
Publisher: Random House Audio
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.
