Sonia Sotomayor invites listeners to learn about her journey to becoming the first Latina Supreme Court Justice of the United States in this middle-grade adaptation of her memoir, MY BELOVED WORLD. Sotomayor narrates the prologue of her captivating story in an inspiring voice full of determination. Narrator Jamie Lee Ortiz then takes on Sotomayor's storytelling role, guiding listeners through the justice's early childhood, into college, and on to her most recent work. Ortiz voices her beautifully, both in English and Spanish, in tones of resolve. As the book ends, Ortiz walks listeners through a glossary of Spanish words and a brief history of the Supreme Court before closing with a warm note about the author.
(Memoir. 10-18)Pub Date: Sept. 4, 2018
Duration: 9 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780525635994
Publisher: Listening Library
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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