Best New Audiobooks for Young Listeners, Selected by AudioFile Magazine for The Children’s Book Review.
Young listeners can dive right into our list of kids’ audiobooks for summer reading fun. These picture books and longer stories are full of family, friendship, history, and adventure. Whether you’re planning a road trip, looking for screen-free activities, or simply want to instill a love of storytelling, these audiobooks are sure to delight listeners of all ages. Let’s explore the power of spoken word and the magic of a well-told tale!
The Best New Audiobooks for Kids
Author Natalia Sylvester narrates her story in a warm and joyful tone. Abuela travels from South America to the U.S. to visit her family. Her granddaughter, Dulce, is fascinated by everything Abuela has brought in her maleta (suitcase), and Dulce relishes her time with Abuela. Music and sound effects add depth and joy to the listening experience. Sylvester has a sweet, loving tone that works remarkably well for both Dulce and Abuela. Listeners with families living far away will be especially moved. Review »
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Crowned: Magical Folk and Fairy Tales from the Diaspora
Written by Kahran Bethencourt, Regis Bethencourt, and Salamishah Tillet [Fore.]
Read by Dion Graham and Mychal-Bella Bowman
Macmillan Audio | 3 hrs. | Ages 4+
Narrators Dion Graham and Mychal-Bella Bowman’s grand and lively performances will have young listeners eager to hear every story in this vibrant collection of African- and African-American-inspired tales. Graham creates imaginative and outsized voices for the stories he leads, while Bowman’s young voice adds depth and authenticity to the child protagonists; her narration is warm and introspective as she takes on more heartfelt tales. Background music adds an extra layer of immersion and never overpowers Graham and Bowman’s stellar performances. Review »
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They Built Me For Freedom: The Story of Juneteenth and Houston’s Emancipation Park
Written by Tonya Duncan Ellis
Read by Aaron Goodson
Harper Audio | 10 mins. | Ages 4+
Narrator Aaron Goodson captures the essence of a special park on a sunny day. Houston’s Emancipation Park, built after the Civil War to commemorate the holiday now known as Juneteenth, has been through periods of prosperity, disrepair, and renewal. Goodson’s resonant tones are infused with joy and pride over the celebrations, ball games, picnics, and protests that form Emancipation Park’s rich history. Following a brief informational note, the audio production closes with an electrifying piece of music that mixes a smooth guitar solo with a gospel choir. Review »
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Orris and Timble: The Beginning
Written by Kate DiCamillo
Read by Mark Bramhall
Listening Library | 19 mins. | Ages 5+
Narrator Mark Bramhall creates a meek voice for Timble the owl and a disgruntled voice for Orris the rat. When Timble gets stuck in a trap, he begs Orris to help him. Orris is unsure, at first, since owls typically eat rats, but eventually he frees Timble from the trap. Bramhall grasps the drama of the moment while providing a pleasant tone throughout as Orris continues to delight Timble with stories. Listeners will appreciate this twist on a classic tale, which leads to a special friendship. Review »
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Author and narrator Antwan Eady creates a tender first-person story of a boy who helps his Papa harvest, transport, and sell goods at his local farm stand. Eady speaks slowly and clearly in the cadence of poetry. His lengthy pauses often serve to highlight the book’s colorful imagery and alliteration. Eady’s author’s note explains his connection to rural Black farmers, their dwindling numbers, and the injustices done to them and generations of sharecroppers, enslaved people, and Indigenous people. Despite this, he leaves the listener with hopeful feelings for the future. Review »
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This list of audiobooks 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.
