This Kid Reviews Books

Thrilling sequel to Island of Fog

Revisado: 04-23-16

What did you love best about Labyrinth of Fire?

I really like this sequel to Island of Fog. It has the same feeling of the first book, with a realistic fantasy. Mr. Robinson has written a good story that brings the characters that we met in book one more into our thoughts – we learn more about their past, and meet new characters as well. There are good tense moments that keep you on the edge of your seat. The book is a fun story with a good plot. At first, Mr. Wolinsky’s voice sounds a little funny when doing female voices, but as the story goes on, it blends seamlessly into the story. The range of characters Wolinsky can pull off is pretty amazing. I do prefer reading the written word but am finding that with good narration, the audiobooks seem to add a dimension to the characters. I really liked this book, and can’t wait to hear book 3!

What did you like best about this story?

Well developed characters and intriguing plot.

What about Fred Wolinsky’s performance did you like?

Mr. Wolinsky has a pleasant narrating voice that makes the story come to life. You could actually imagine yourself there with all of the characters.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I would have liked to but didn't have the time.

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Gripping story!

Revisado: 12-12-15

Where does Island of Fog, Book 1 rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Top ten

What was one of the most memorable moments of Island of Fog, Book 1?

When they realized who the manticore was

What does Fred Wolinsky bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The number of distinct voices Mr. Wolinsky is able to pull off is astonishing. That is talent. I found that the audio book took a lot longer to listen to than it would have taken me to read (I am a pretty fast reader). I think I like that though. It forced me to slow down and kind of added more suspense to the story for me. Plus it became a family activity. Once I started listening to it, my parents and sister would sit down next to me as it was playing.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The entire story was very gripping

Any additional comments?

What I Thought- This was a great story. Mr. Robinson creates realistic characters (well, besides the whole changing-into-monsters thing) with distinct personalities that make sense. There are a lot of characters in the story, but each serve a purpose and none felt like they were “filler.” THe story is told from the perspective of Hal, one of the children. I like this point of view because the reader gets to discover the island’s secrets along with Hal. The book is kind of post-apocalyptic, as in a virus killed off most the population in the world, and drove the rest insane. Strangely enough, it is all believable. Even the part about another dimension-thingy. The setting adds to the mystery of the story and I like how bits of the plot are revealed slowly at first and then the last part of the book is jammed packed excitement. Mr. Robinson explains things well, and keeps you hooked. Now, onto Mr. Wolinsky’s performance. If I didn’t know that this was one person, I might have believed that it was (at least) two people. The number of distinct voices Mr. Wolinsky is able to pull off is astonishing. That is talent. I found that the audio book took a lot longer to listen to than it would have taken me to read (I am a pretty fast reader). I think I like that though. It forced me to slow down and kind of added more suspense to the story for me. Plus it became a family activity. Once I started listening to it, my parents and sister would sit down next to me as it was playing. We don’t listen to many audio-books, but maybe we will now. An all-around great audio-book!
*NOTE* I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

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First Audiobook - High expectations for others!

Revisado: 08-15-15

Would you consider the audio edition of The Candle Star to be better than the print version?

I really don't know which I prefer. The two are really different mediums, and it is hard to decide.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Candle Star?

I think it was when Emily realizes that slavery isn't the best thing in the world. It was a turning point. Also, when she meets her uncle.

What about Fred Wolinsky’s performance did you like?

I was thoroughly impressed by his range of voices. I found his “Emily” voice kind of silly, but I guess that it’s because he’s a guy. I really didn't mind that.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Stubborn privileged southern girl has her eyes opened by the actions of her abolitionist uncle and his colleagues.

Any additional comments?

This was a very cool audiobook. Honestly, this is the first time I’ve heard a professional audiobook. I will say that this one has set the bar high for the next one I’ll listen to! Mr. Wolinsky’s narration really brings the story to life. It made me feel like I was there with the characters as the story unfolded. I was already a fan of Mrs. Isenhoff’s historical fiction books. It is a genre that is very difficult to pull off for middle grade readers. The story has to be accurate, exciting and give kids enough to make them want to read more. Isenhoff pulls this off well. I found that the audiobook added an extra level to the world Isenhoff created. It added dimension to some characters. Some of that I did like and some I found odd, only because I read the book first and had preconceived images of what the characters would sound/look like. Overall, the audiobook was a great experience and I would highly recommend it.

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