Author Rebecca Barone contrasts the 1910 race to the South Pole between Scott and Amundsen with the 2018 race to complete the first successful solo crossing of Antarctica between Louis Rudd and Colin O'Brady. These twin stories of polar exploration, endurance, and national pride could easily have been reduced to feats of men against the harsh elements, but Barone and narrator Kate Mulligan combine efforts to add emotional depth and broaden the appeal. Mulligan's easy pacing and warm, clear voice smoothly pull the listener into the grueling journeys. We hear Scott's bitter disappointment upon discovering the Norwegian flag at the Pole and O'Brady's happiness as he chats with Paul Simon on his satellite phone. Particularly poignant is Rudd's carrying the family crest of his friend Henry Worsley to honor the fallen explorer.
(Nonfiction. 11-14)Pub Date: 2021
Duration: 5 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN:
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An engaging performance by Cary Hite enlivens this accessible history of basketball for young listeners, with a focus on the men's game and an "overtime" section devoted to the women's. Hite narrates with relish and an audible appreciation for the sport's evolution from a glorified game of hot potato to today's fast-paced competitions. Hite gives listeners a courtside view of hardwood feats from legendary ballers as they elevate the game with signature moves and lead the way forward for successive generations of players alongside crucial developments, such as the introduction of shot clocks and the Harlem Globetrotters' skillful, exciting play style. This informative production, paired with a warm and assured narration, has appeal for all ages.
(Nonfiction. 9-13)Pub Date: 2026
Duration: 2 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668654729
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This is a very brief introduction to the 6,888th Central Postal Directory Battalion of WWII. Jade Wheeler narrates with crisp enunciation, slow pacing, and buoyant admiration for the work of the Black women serving in the newly desegregated U.S. Army. Letters from home were a great morale builder for the troops. The Six Triple Eight was deployed in the U.S. and overseas to manage the sorting and delivery of millions of pieces of backlogged mail. Although more than 850 women served, 6 individual service members are named during the story. Wheeler delivers their names in a tone of respect. The credits are accompanied by 1940s-style jazz music. The PDF included contains a timeline, a glossary, and further reading.
(Informational picture book. 6-9)Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 11 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063459748
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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