Monika Felice Smith's youthful voice has a slight rasp, matching the personality of 12-year-old CJ, who is both worldly-wise and naïve. For some years, CJ has traveled the country with her aunt, a medium, who periodically channels CJ's late mother. Smith expresses CJ's can-do attitude toward driving a truck with a stick shift, planning a route anywhere in the country, and learning about how the spirit world works. When her aunt tells CJ that her mother has traveled "far away," CJ seeks reconnection, enlisting the help of 16-year-old Jax. Smith captures their initial friction and growing closeness, the mystery and surprises of their quest, and, most importantly, the truths CJ learns that make her question her relationships and beliefs.
(Fiction. 8-12)Pub Date: March 5, 2019
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780525625322
Publisher: Listening Library
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.Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 4 hrs, 55 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217280445
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: April 4, 2026
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
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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