Rukhmani K. Desai fully expresses the many facets of 1992 Stanford freshman Gita Desai. Humorous sarcasm and success in her pre-med studies communicate Gita's intelligence. Desai also voices Gita's uncertainty about her developing sexuality and first girlfriend relationships. Desai moves easily between English and Indian terms. Her voice resonates as Gita wonders about why her aunt and uncle disappeared from her life a decade ago and how she's become accustomed to constantly being told to "chup-re" (shut up). Desai builds the emotional intensity of Gita's sexual encounters, which are accompanied by fragmentary memories of sexual abuse as a child and self-blame. These culminate in a feeling of triumph as Gita finally speaks her truths. Patel's Afterword offers resources for those who need them.
(Fiction. 15-18)Pub Date: Sept. 10, 2024
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593744802
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Karla Serrato's authentic accent adds to her presentation of the difficult choices faced by two teenagers dealing with corporate greed and its associated damage. Paloma decides to enter a scholarship contest with her ex-boyfriend Julio by investigating the harm the business giant Selva is inflicting on their Southern California community. Winning would provide each their greatest desire, providing Julio tuition and Paloma the national publication of her writing. Serrato's thoughtful narration ably depicts the teens, their families, and the twists in their stories. An accompanying map and afterword provide context to the important story behind Ixta's writing. A relevant and engrossing tale as the students uncover the ecological and political ramifications.
(Fiction. 13-18)Pub Date: Feb. 3, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063287945
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Desean Terry delivers a touching performance of this reimagining of "The Great Gatsby," in which the protagonists are gay Black prep school students. Aspiring journalist Nick Carrington leaves Oklahoma to begin school at Harlem's West Egg Academy. Out of his element, Nick keeps his gay identity a closely held secret, but love interest Jay Gatsby Jr.--the academy founder's son--openly embraces his own gay identity. As they write letters to each other, each more daring and affectionate than the last, they receive threats that their budding relationship will be exposed in the school newspaper. Terry clearly presents every piece of dialogue that warrants an emotional charge and adds subtle suspense to his straightforward tone when needed. Terry's narration is always on the money.
(Historical fiction. 13-18)Pub Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063312517
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Follow
Popular in this Genre
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
