Best New Audiobooks for Kids 8+, Selected by AudioFile Magazine for The Children’s Book Review.
This month is full of fantastic middle grade listening, including a full-cast graphic novel adaptation, a historical fantasy, a short story anthology, and more. From the bustling streets of 1940s Paris to the cricket fields of India, these audiobooks transport young listeners to vibrant worlds, both real and imagined. With diverse casts, engaging narratives, and stellar performances, these audiobook offerings promise to captivate audiences aged 8 and up.
The Best New Audiobooks for Kids 8 and Up
There is a simplicity to 11-year-old Safiyyah’s life within the Grand Mosque of Paris, where she lives in 1940. Shala Nyx’s narration reflects Safiyyah’s innocence, the love and warmth of her family and friends, and the way she cares so kindly for them. But soon curiosity and discomfort creep into her life, which are reflected in Nyx’s reading. Discovering her parents’ secrets results in Safiyyah becoming part of the French Resistance, aiding Jews’ escapes. Nyx shows her growing bravery and confidence. Review»
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Birds on the Brain: The Book Uncle, Book 2
Written by Uma Krishnaswami
Read by Sneha Mathan
Dreamscape | 2.5 hrs | Ages 8+
Exuding warmth and enthusiasm, Sneha Mathan transports listeners to India and the world of Reeni and her friends. Reeni’s teacher requires the class to do a survey on something they care about. For Reeni, it’s birds, and since it’s time for Bird Count India, she goes all in. Mathan’s slightly quick cadence renders Reeni’s impulsive energy—sometimes, she forgets to listen! The local characters all have different voices. Charming fun with quiet life lessons, all enhanced by Mathan’s performance. Review»
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Tryouts
Written by Sarah Sax
Read by Emmett Grosland, Felisha Wong, Davu Smith, GM Hakim, Valerie Rose Lohman, Dan Crane, Mirai, Seth Fuentes, Jay Myers, Robbie Daymond, and a Full Cast
Listening Library | 1.5 hrs. | Ages 8+
Em Grosland takes center stage as Al in this full-cast sequel to PICTURE DAY. The titular tryouts refer to the Brinkley Martians baseball team, which has never had a girl in its lineup. Talented catcher Al is the first, but the outsized—and unwelcome—attention she attracts threatens the team’s cohesion. Lessons of teamwork and persistence ground the story, while swiftly paced dialogue adds humor. A solid hit. Review»
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The Secret Library
Written by Kekla Magoon
Read by Nekia Renee Martin
Listening Library | 10 hrs. | Ages 8+
Nekia Renee Martin takes listeners back in time in this middle-grade fantasy. When Dally’s grandfather died, their days of adventure ended—but he left behind a map to the mysterious Secret Library. There Dally travels back to the time of her family’s first secrets, experiencing them alongside her forebears. Martin’s characterizations are deft and nuanced. As Dally’s adventures take her to dangerous times and places, Martin’s assured voice carries listeners through with aplomb. Review»
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The Door is Open: Stories of Celebration and Community by 11 Desi Voices
Written by Hena Khan [Ed.]
Read by Anjali Kunapaneni and Vikas Adam
Hachette Audio | 6 hrs. | Ages 8+
Narrators Anjali Kunapaneni and Vikas Adam create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere in this delightful collection of stories about Desi middle schoolers who gather at the Maple Grove Community Center. These preteens come from a wide variety of family structures, religions, and South Asian cultural backgrounds. Adam and Kunapaneni take care to give every character a distinct voice that fits their personality and circumstances. Review»
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The article“Best New Audiobooks for Kids 8+” was curated by AudioFile. AudioFile is an independent source of audiobook reviews and recommendations with a clear focus on the performance and listening experience. AudioFile Earphones Awards are given to exceptional audiobooks. To learn more, visit audiofilemagazine.com, Twitter @AudioFileMag, Facebook @audiofilemagazine, and Instagram @AudioFileMagazine
