Suzanne Toren’s voice has an irresistible storytelling quality in this engaging performance. As the wise, mysterious narrator, she recounts how the once lovely village of Stone-in-the-Glen survives a series of disasters, including a terrible fire that destroys the library. In addition, the village’s enigmatic mayor is promoting fear and distrust in the community. Ultimately, between fascinating snippets of dragon lore, the story reveals how small acts of kindness change the villagers’ lives. A loving family of orphans, a gentle ogress, and the healing power of stories all contribute positive layers to this tale of compassion and being true neighbors. Toren’s warm voice, effective pacing, and impressive array of unique characterizations, including a murder of crows, perfectly capture this thought-provoking fantasy. S.A.A. 2023 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine
(Fantasy. 9-adult)Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2022
Duration: 13 hrs
Publisher: Workman Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Arsenault’s passionate performance brings this alternative world to life.
Fourteen-year-old Tessa lives in a dystopian world with a leader who has banned books and taken away the personal liberties of its citizens. Elise Arsenault establishes a steady pace with her narration. When an older neighbor is taken to elder care, Tessa finds a box of forbidden books in her house that changes everything. Arsenault captures Tessa’s tumultuous emotions as she learns about the past and discovers that her long-lost twin brother, Theo, who disappeared years ago, may still be alive. Fans of Lowry’s The Giver will be intrigued by this world, one that feels frighteningly plausible.
Arsenault’s passionate performance brings this alternative world to life. (Dystopian. 9-12)Pub Date: Sept. 29, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 49 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063515130
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Aug. 9, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 2026
A fun listen about standing up for what you believe in.
Sixth grader Jordi Acosta starts to take an interest in activism when two issues become significant in his life. First, books are being banned at the school library, and second, an energy company wants to drill in Yaupon Creek Wildlife Refuge, where he volunteers with his mom, a wildlife biologist who tends to cryptids there. Adi Cabral narrates at a quick pace, with a slightly sassy edge. They bring a wealth of variety to their depictions of middle schooler Jordi and his friends, creating different voices, from impudent to nerdy and nasal. Several characters have Southern accents.
A fun listen about standing up for what you believe in. (Fantasy. 9-12)Pub Date: Sept. 22, 2026
Duration: 5 hrs, 9 mins
DD ISBN: 9798349166136
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: Oct. 20, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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