Author Sherman Alexie’s son, David, energetically portrays the dynamic Thunder Boy Jr., a boy who believes his name makes him sound “like a burp or a fart.” He imagines all kinds of imaginative name alternatives with quirky rationales—“Old Toys Are Awesome,” for example, would depict his penchant for garage sales. Alexie’s playful reading adds emphasis to Yuyi Morales’s animated illustrations (included in a PDF). His rhythms emphasize the poetic writing. Sherman Alexie joins forces with his son at the audio’s end. His deep, sonorous voice reflects the powerful caring of a father who seeks happiness for his son. The two voices harmonize in a perfect climax, mirroring the shared love of two protagonists who together make “amazing weather” that “lights up the sky.”
(Picture book. 4-7)Pub Date: May 10, 2016
Duration: 5 mins
DD ISBN: 9781478964131
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Through Andromeda’s story, young listeners will learn more about the justice system and their rights.
Fifth grader Andromeda Diaz is concerned about her friend, Benji, who has been accused of stealing a valuable watch and is now facing charges. Andi, the daughter of two public defenders, doesn’t believe he committed the crime, and she works to figure out what really happened. Author Almanza, who was herself a public defender, performs her own work enthusiastically. Her narration style is casual, at times not quite nailing the rhythm of the text. While she’s not a professional narrator, her knowledge of the legal process shines through.
Through Andromeda’s story, young listeners will learn more about the justice system and their rights. (Mystery. 8-12)Pub Date: Sept. 8, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 11 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217352364
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: tomorrow
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 2026
The plot, performances, and production are funny and engaging and make Pedro’s world feel vibrant and full.
This full cast audio rendition of a graphic memoir conveys the energy and brightness of that visual medium. The story recounts Pedro’s challenging but hopeful and humorous childhood as a migrant farmworker in the U.S., growing up with dreams of a life in the arts. Sound effects and musical interludes punctuate the narrative. Plates rattle as an earthquake shakes a restaurant, and birds sing in the bushes on a berry farm as Pedro’s family works. The animated performances by this large cast, especially the boyish voice of Oscar Emmanuel Fabela as Pedro, are perfect to hook preteen listeners—and adults, too.
The plot, performances, and production are funny and engaging and make Pedro’s world feel vibrant and full. (Graphic memoir. 10-16)Pub Date: Sept. 1, 2026
Duration: 3 hrs, 38 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217349708
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: tomorrow
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 2026
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