1931 was a banner year in New York City. Accomplishments included the height of the new Empire State Building, the length of the George Washington Bridge, and the launching of the new fireboat John J. Harvey. In her signature book (an admirable candidate for the 2002 Caldecott Medal), Maira Kalman celebrates the feats of a hard-working boat and its crew in New York Harbor of the period and now, as the restored vessel begins a new life. Kalman also pays tribute to the role the Harvey played in the days of 9/11. Judd Hirsch narrates with admiration for each crew member. His voice is firm and steady as he shares both the mundane and the heroic. Sound effects of the period and the nautical and musical interludes complete the recording. A.R. 2005 ALA Notable Recording (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine
Ages 4-6Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2004
Duration: 15 mins
Publisher: Live Oak Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator Liam Aiken skillfully brings this series finale to a satisfying conclusion. Finally, Lemony believes he has answers to his many questions--but does he really? The story's train setting is unique and adds a thrilling sense of place as Stain'd-by-the-Sea is left far behind. Aiken presents the story's clever wordplay and vocabulary in a lively manner that will appeal to young listeners. Lemony must ascertain who murdered one of his heroes, librarian Dashiell Qwerty. Because he loves libraries, librarians, and books, Lemony's sadness is audibly apparent in Aiken's tone. As Lemony and his associates sift through clues, they share tidbits about their favorite authors and books. It's a challenging listen as the suspects continually shift. Aiken's best creation is Hangfire, whose sarcasm and creepy voice will keep listeners on edge.
Ages 8+Pub Date: Oct. 6, 2015
Duration: 5 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781478959656
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Murphy has used Robert Louis Stevenson's 1879 trip across America and entries from Stevenson's own journals to recreate this wonderful slice of Americana. Davidson's outstanding ability to capture the sound of early American voices makes this at once interesting and enjoyable for young listeners. Stevenson's horrendous experience crossing the Atlantic and his equally harrowing train trip across the United States are rendered in a style reminiscent of a great teacher or storyteller relaying a tale that modern Americans can barely imagine. Davidson splendidly enhances an interesting story with minimal dramatic flourishes. This excellent and easy way to learn American history is not to be missed.
(Ages 10+)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1998
Duration: 2 hrs, 45 mins
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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