The late Judith Heumann, who used a wheelchair all her life, narrates her own note to listeners in this brief account of her youth and early disability-rights activism. Ali Stroker delivers the story itself, which begins with Heumann's education, a time that is marked by humiliation and opposition at nearly every turn. This fuels the anger and determination that leads to Heumann's role in protests supporting a 1977 federal law prohibiting discrimination against disabled people. Stirring music combines with sound effects (a wheelchair bumping up stairs, protest chants) to underscore Stroker's firm, decisive delivery. A concluding note is largely duplicative of the story--and that's a shame as listeners may well turn it off before reaching a summary of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
(Picture-book biography. 6-9)Pub Date: Jan. 17, 2023
Duration: 31 mins
DD ISBN: 9781666620719
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Much has been written on Jackie Robinson's groundbreaking career and legacy, but it's nice to see a well-done synopsis covering the highlights of his life for young people. Narrator JD Jackson carries the story as he conveys the importance of Robinson's life without overdramatization. It covers Robinson's growing up, time in the Army, and deliberate recruitment for the purpose of breaking Major League baseball's color barrier. Jackson gives various players, coaches, and individuals--including Robinson's wife, Rachel--slight accents. His steady, animated narration reflects the well-researched book and is sure to hold the attention of both young and older listeners.
(Biography. 10-13)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2017
Duration: 2 hrs, 15 mins
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Classical music provides an enjoyable background to the story of Cecilia Chiang. She first watched cooking in her family home in China and then was introduced to its varied cuisine as she crossed the country during WWII. Later, she immigrated to the US. Cindy Kay's soft voice transmits Cecilia's dedication to the dishes she loves and grows stronger and more determined as she finds herself wanting to share them. The accuracy of Kay's accent and the descriptions of dishes as Chiang opens San Francisco's Mandarin, the first restaurant to treat Chinese food as fine dining, awakens listeners' taste buds, provides authenticity, and creates appreciation for Chiang's accomplishments.
(Picture-book biography. 5-10)Pub Date: April 29, 2025
Duration: 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668647394
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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