Book Reviews: Audio Books

Going on a trip this spring break? Try out these titles to keep kids entertained.

Louise, the Adventures of a Chicken, by Kate DiCamillo, illus. by Harry Bliss, read by Barbara Rosenblat (Live Oak Media). The 2010 winner of the ALA Odyssey Award for Audiobooks, this chicken leaves home to find adventure. She goes to sea, joins a circus and meets a stranger in a bazaar. Louise is a complete hero: brave, fearless, clever--and she is a chicken. Rosenblat creates a multitude of hilarious characters with just her voice. Bring along the book as well--the full page pictures will come alive as you listen. (Ages 4-8)

Brisingr, by Christopher Paolini, read by Gerard Doyle (Listening Library). Going to Africa or Australia? Then take along this book. Clocking in at 28 hours, it is amazing how Doyle keeps listeners engaged. This was the 2009 Audiobook of the Year. It illustrates how talented readers can improve a book! Remember to bring batteries or power chargers. (Age 12 and up)

The Shoe Bird, based on a story by Eudora Welty, by Samuel Jones, read by Jim Dale with the Seattle Symphony, Northwest Boychoir, Vocalpoint! Seattle. (Brilliance) You might recognize British actor Jim Dale’s voice from the Harry Potter series. Dozens of Grammy Awards and nominations and Audio Awards are proof of his supreme storytelling skills. Like “Peter and the Wolf,” this story was written for orchestra with a narrator. A delight for the whole family. Jim Dale fans should also try James Herriot’s Treasury for Children. (All Ages)

More About Paddington, by Michael Bond, performed by Stephen Fry (Harper Collins Audio). The beloved Paddington returns in audio form, causing chaos you can see and hear in your imagination. A 2008 Audie Winner, this narrated version is perfect for young listeners. Two and a half hours of happy, captivated minds. (Ages 3 – 8)

Yes to Running, by Bill Harley (Round River Records) There are DVD and CD versions of this title, so choose your medium. Harley took home a Grammy Award in 2008 for Best Spoken Word Album for this collection of old favorites and new stories. Full of elementary school hilarity, including stern substitute teachers, sledding backwards down Dead Man’s Curve and pirates that steal your underpants, this selection is enhanced by Harley’s mastery at capturing your attention. (Ages 7 and up)

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Julie Hubble is making spring break plans in Leawood.