The characters in Nikki Grimes's newest novel-in-verse confront a variety of serious personal problems. An ensemble cast brings to life this story of a high school poetry class in which the students learn about themselves, each other, and how to move ahead in spite of their issues. The story reflects the group's ethnic diversity, giving this listen high #OwnVoices appeal. Edward Lopez, who narrates the character with the largest speaking role, offers the least credibility. New York teens from working-class Dominican households simply don't speak English or Spanish with the blandness he exhibits. In contrast, narrators Sisi Johnson, Almarie Guerra, and Ruffin Prentiss provide nuanced and wholly credible performances.
(Fiction. 12-16)Pub Date: 2018
Duration: 4 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781501962622
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Tune your ear to a rap beat and prepare for a great listen. It's 1999, and Pernell, a failing high school student, uses a pen recorder to capture his thoughts for posterity in case the Y2K hysteria is true and civilization collapses. Author and narrator Idris Goodwin showcases the personalities of Pernell's caring parents and friends, as well as an antagonistic teacher, through tone. Sometimes it takes a few seconds to determine who's speaking, but Goodwin's approach definitely works. Pernell is thoroughly likable. He's smart but often derailed by ADHD. Rapping is his thing. He records his triumphs and struggles, including his attempts to be the Cypher King of summer school. Listeners will find that his sincerity and occasional self-doubts ring true.
(Verse fiction. 12-18)Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 3 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781668147696
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
January LaVoy pulls listeners into a world in which motives are unclear. Jordyn, a first-year student at a historically Black college, finds her roommate's brother--just out of prison--sleeping on their couch. While he soon wows their friends with his outgoing personality, Jordyn senses that something about him is off, big-time. LaVoy's ability to shift seamlessly between cool confidence, vulnerable self-doubt, and simmering menace adds layers of complexity to the central character, keeping the listener guessing where the truth ends and manipulation begins. LaVoy's nuanced timing heightens moments of suspense, while her emotional depth grounds the narrative in authenticity. The result is an immersive audio experience that amplifies the tension and intrigue.
(Thriller. 15-adult)Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 9 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063271302
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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