In this rollicking romp through his childhood, Roald Dahl's listeners glimpse some of the imaginative inspirations for his delightful stories. We spend idyllic summers in his mother's native Norway, grow weary at the boredom of his English public schools, wince at the canings administered to 7-year-old boys by 40-year-old psychopaths, even find a real live chocolate factory that gives free samples to young boys. Yet we relish every minute. The author covers all in the rosy hue of nostalgia, while Sachs fills it with twitches, grunts, and tipsy 10-year-olds. His familiar voice playfully marshals before our eyes the saints and demons from Dahl's memory as only an accomplished actor can, capturing with them all the drama, suspense, and energy of the written text.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2000
Duration: 3 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers
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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