This classic story of a stuffed rabbit whose love for his boy helps him become real is always warm and comforting. This version, read by Meryl Streep, is a gem! Streep’s impeccable diction enunciates each word, yet her tone is gentle, her pace slow and relaxing, her reading sensitive and full of emotion--from the confusion of the rabbit at the snobbery of the other toys, to the anguish he feels when he meets the live rabbits, to the joy he feels when he realizes he’s truly a “real rabbit.” Add to this perfect reading George Winston’s soft and lovely musical accompaniment and you have a treasure that will be loved and enjoyed over and over again, like the velveteen rabbit himself.
Ages 4-6Pub Date: 2007
Duration: 35 mins
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator P.J. Ochlan embraces this spirited novel, documenting 11-year-old Rocco Zaccaro's adventures with such gusto and spunk that you'd swear you'd traveled back in time to 1887. The story begins with Rocco's removal from his home in Italy and his subsequent arrival in New York City, where he is to work as a street musician for his new padrone, Signor Ancarola. Ochlan paints a vivid picture of immigrant life and the trials Rocco undergoes trying to escape the horrible living conditions under his padrone. Capturing the characters' voices perfectly, Ochlan delivers Rocco's animated storytelling, the slang of his newfound gang of pickpockets, and the accents of the city's many immigrants, whether Irish, Scottish, German, English, or Italian. Historical notes, including a pickpocket's glossary, complete this excellent production.
(Historical fiction. 8-12)Pub Date: 2016
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780147521477
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator Kirby Heyborne reprises his role as Nandu, a Nepalese boy, in this sequel to WHAT ELEPHANTS KNOW. The 13-year-old lives with his adoptive father, Subba-sahib, in the newly established Royal Elephant Breeding Center on the edge of the jungle in 1970s Nepal. His community is tested by earthquake, drought, a dangerous wild bull elephant, and menacing poachers. Heyborne's earnest voice captures Nandu's sincere respect and righteous anger, along with his desire to protect the animals in his care. His passionate voice contrasts with the calm, solemn authority of Subba-sahib and highlights the audiobook's powerful messages of stewardship for the earth's creatures, and kindness, empathy, and harmony among individuals of different faiths.
(Historical fiction. 9-13)Pub Date: 2019
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781980034773
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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