A Wrinkle in Time [talking book] by Madeline L’Engle

Listening Library
Available on Overdrive
328 minutes
Audiobook

While joyously contesting to the pleasures of being read to is something that I never tire, until I heard Madeline’s sweetly soothing soprano--with just the sparsest sprinkling of a lisp, I was completely unaware of exactly how comforting it could be. Like retreating under the warmest winter duvet, L’Engle’s voice and story lured me into a state of absolute stillness from which I did not care to emerge from until the last word of the last line of the last paragraph was read. An absolutely enchanting story about social outcasts, space travel, and fighting evil which works beautifully as an audio recording for the simple reason that it allows that much less attachment to reality. Best for children over the age of 10. *****

The Cat and the Hat and Other Dr. Seuss Favourites

Listening Library
Available on Overdrive
2 hours
Audiobook

Nine classic Suess stories narrated by nine superbly talented actors, what a marvelous treat—if you don’t make the mistake of listening to them all in a row. Seuss’ stories are meant to be single servings, but for logistical reasons, this probably would not work as well in audio form. Charm is added to Suess’ prose and poetry by music, sound effects, and voice stylistics. However, some actors (ahem, Billy Crystal) in attempts at coming across as charming, over-shoot completely, and are merely annoying. If pressed to choose just one, listen to the signature piece, The Cat and the Hat for Kelsey Grammer’s timing and humour. Perfect to play while crafting or baking, and suitable for the every age.