Narrator Neil Shah underwhelms listeners as he delivers this immigrant story based loosely on the author's brother-in-law's experiences while fleeing war-ravaged Afghanistan. It's 2001, and 12-year-old Fadi and his family make a dash for the U.S. to seek refuge. But just as they near neighboring Pakistan, the Taliban appears, and Fadi's younger sister, Mariam, gets left behind. Shah sounds off-key while narrating some of the dramatic scenes. Where the work requires a solemn tone because of family separation and other issues of immigration, Shah's treatment sounds oddly exuberant. Furthermore, most of the characters need strong, distinct voices to sound compelling. Listeners will be intrigued by this audiobook's topic, but Shah's narration may disappoint.
Ages 8+Pub Date: Feb. 2, 2021
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781705212363
Publisher: Tantor Media
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
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