Children's and young adult author Wendelin Van Draanen narrates what is as much a fireside chat as it is a guide to writing and publishing. She begins by stating that she never intended to have a career as a writer. But a writer she is, and she provides listeners with information about every step in the writing process. She uses a wide variety of stories from her own experience that educate, elucidate, and offer a reality check. Even so, Van Draanen consistently manages to offer encouragement, making this audiobook a valuable tool for budding writers as well as those interested in finding out about her work. Van Draanen points out her own foibles and difficulties along with her triumphs, allowing listeners to feel as though they are listening to a friend, rather than a lecture.
(Nonfiction. 14-adult)Pub Date: Jan. 14, 2020
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593155271
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In 1832 thirteen-year-old Charlotte Doyle is sailing from Liverpool to Rhode Island to rejoin her family. Shocked to discover that the families who were to have been both guardians and companions will not accompany her, Charlotte embarks on a journey filled with terror and swashbuckling adventure. The first-person narrative makes this Newbery Honor book a wonderful choice for recording. O'Karma's reading, with its hint of cross-gender differentiation, allows the listener to feel as if Charlotte Doyle herself were relating the tale. This story should be particularly alluring to adolescent girls although the fast-paced action and the nautical setting will also appeal to male listeners. Ages 12-adult.
Ages 12+Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Lipica Shah's stirring narration of this YA biography showcases Emma Goldman's unshakable commitment to improving the lives of the oppressed. In 1885, Goldman immigrated to the U.S. from czarist Russia and became an ardent anarchist. A prolific writer and inspirational speaker, she gave hundreds of well-attended speeches each year. When quoting Goldman, Shah exudes the intensity of her quest to elevate America's working class. When quoting from any of the thousands of period newspaper articles about Goldman, Shah mimics their predominantly disapproving tone. Goldman was even imprisoned because of her progressive positions on government, workers' rights, sex, and birth control. Never deterred, Goldman was once considered the most dangerous woman in America.
(Biography. 14-18)Pub Date: Sept. 16, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250415134
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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