Actress Phylicia Rashad beautifully proves the power of the word and the voice in this short biography of Coretta Scott King. Rashad’s clear, smooth voice delivers Shange's text with little embellishment. To praise the minimalism might mislead, as the spareness of text and expression emphasizes the power and poetry of this listening experience. The program shows a mastery of subtle effects—the soft sound of hands clapping, a wet footstep, or the swelling chorus of voices—creating a soundscape below Rashad's words. Paired with Kadir Nelson's illustrations of the hardcover book, this audiobook for all ages is a treasure and should not be relegated to the young. Coretta's epilogue biography, also read by Rashad, fills in some details and defines historical elements that enrich listener understanding.
Ages 4-6Pub Date: 2013
Duration: 6 mins
Publisher: Weston Woods Studios
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: 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: 2025
Duration: 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668647394
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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