With each of its five narrators being voiced by a different actor, this story manages to remain engaging even while it takes a long time to build momentum. Abigail Revasch portrays Randi, a competitive gymnast whose mother micromanages her life. Robbie Daymond's Scott is well meaning, if a bit hyperactive and accident-prone. Trevor, who is desperate to avoid turning out like his abusive brother, is portrayed by Todd Haberkorn. The two featured characters of the production, Natalie and Gavin, are portrayed by Caitlin Davies and Ozzie Rodriguez. Natalie, an aspiring lawyer, speaks intentionally. Gavin, a football enthusiast with a learning disability, speaks slowly and thoughtfully. The story addresses complex issues and is sure to engage listeners.
(Fiction. 9-12)Pub Date: Oct. 3, 2017
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781524782115
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Live Oak Media recently caught our attention with this new read-along book and cassette program. We listened first, and were so delighted we couldn't wait to get the book. The picture book made the experience even better, but the audio recordings was strong and vibrant by itself. THE GARDENER, Sarah Stewart's Depression-era story of a young girl sent to live with her Uncle Jim in the city has a sweet, wistful quality with narration alone, but coupled with David Small's soft-edged pencil illustration, it's a total delight. The reading is repeated on both sides of the tape, one with and without page-turning signals.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: N/A
Publisher: Live Oak Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Edwards gives a soulful performance.
Young Juniper visits her grandmother's house, where Grandma tells her about their ancestors from Africa and their practice of hoodoo. Together, Juniper and Grandma tend to the garden, go for walks in the woods, attend church, create herb-filled mojo bags, and visit the cemetery to place offerings for their ancestors, whom Grandma says are always with them. Narrator Janina Edwards conveys Grandma’s wisdom with an earthy and relaxed narration, expressing a clear connection with the natural world, a refuge for both of them. Edwards also handily portrays Juniper's sense of wonder as she navigates this spiritual connection, inspiring listeners to pay attention to the world around them.
Edwards gives a soulful performance. (Picture book. 6-8)Pub Date: April 7, 2026
Duration: 13 mins
DD ISBN: 9798349168703
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: June 2, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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