Kevin Shen offers a heartwarming narration of Natsukawa's tale of a magical cat and a lonely boy who loves books. After the death of his grandfather, a withdrawn Japanese schoolboy named Rintaro takes over his grandfather's bookshop. Enter a talking tabby who enlists Rintaro in a series of book-rescue quests. Shen's skill with characterization nicely colors the adventuresome, witty story, which will appeal to adults of all ages. He adds a tone of puzzlement to his pleasant tenor for Rintaro at the start, then mixes in confidence as the story progresses. The cat sounds like a clubby Englishman. The imprisoner of books drips sarcasm. The book mutilator screeches. The mass-market bookseller booms. And Rintaro's classmates sound like young teens everywhere. This is a sweet and uplifting listen.
Pub Date: Dec. 7, 2021
Duration: 5 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780063095755
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this sequel to Terms of Endearment, Larry McMurtry brings back Aurora Greenway, who is now dealing with her various lovers and friends plus three grown grandchildren with a variety of problems. He presents a tale of growing up and growing old which is bittersweet and funny. Narrator Ivey uses a slight east Texas accent which authenticates the setting of the story. Each character's voice has a slightly different inflection to differentiate it. It all works together well. As you listen, you feel as if you might actually be in Houston sharing the lives of these resilient and refreshing people.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 20 hrs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
To Fred Fairly, a Cambridge Fellow, truth is everything. What then is the truth about the woman he finds beside him when he awakens? English conventions and mores of 1912 Cambridge are central to this period piece. Callow's wonderful voice and interpretation make accents, personalities and gender come alive, and help make sense of the frequent time and character shifts. His delivery enhances a most clever "choose your own ending."
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 5 hrs
Publisher: BBC Audiobooks America/ Chivers
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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