Athena

A Teenager Fights the Climate Crisis

De: Rick McManus

Narrado por: Isa McManus

After a historic hurricane strikes her Southern California desert town, 16-year-old Athena becomes convinced that the global youth climate movement isn't pushing hard enough for change. While she admires their protests, she believes more dramatic action is needed to force governments, media, and climate deniers to confront the crisis threatening her generation's future. She develops a radical new approach that no one will be able to ignore — one that will either save the planet or destroy her future.

©2019 Richard McManus (P)2025 Richard McManus

A Bold Voice for the Planet

Athena’s determination and courage are electrifying. This audiobook doesn’t hold back when it comes to climate urgency, and I appreciated how the author let the main character’s voice be angry, raw, and hopeful all at once. The story is gripping, and the narration by Isa McManus is emotionally spot-on. It’s rare to find a teen character written with this much depth and conviction. I finished it feeling deeply moved and inspired to act.

A Strong Message, Slightly Rushed

I really enjoyed this audiobook overall. Athena is a well-developed character and the emotional intensity is consistent throughout. The only reason I’m giving four stars is that I felt some of the more radical decisions she made came a little too quickly without enough buildup. That said, it’s a thrilling and thought-provoking story with a powerful core message. Still highly recommend!

Beautifully Narrated Journey

Isa McManus brings Athena to life with incredible grace and intensity. The narration adds a deeply personal layer to the story, making the emotions hit harder. It felt like listening to a personal diary or manifesto from the frontlines of the climate crisis. Emotional, gripping, and unforgettable.

Youth Power in Action

This audiobook captures the raw energy of youth activism in a way I’ve never seen before. Athena’s story isn’t about someone waiting to be saved—it’s about someone taking the reins and doing something radical. Her sense of urgency feels incredibly real, and the plot kept me emotionally engaged the entire time. It’s a powerful, fast-paced narrative that makes you sit up and pay attention. Everyone—especially teens—should listen to this.

A Bold New Kind of Climate Fiction

This is not your typical environmental story. It’s personal, political, and passionate. Athena represents a generation that’s done waiting for adults to act. The writing is excellent, and the narrator brings it to life with real conviction. This audiobook should be required listening in every school.

Strong but Heavy

I really enjoyed this audiobook and found Athena’s character both believable and inspiring. However, there were moments where the story felt emotionally heavy, which made it a little hard to listen to for long stretches. That said, the message is important and very timely. The narration is excellent and fits the tone perfectly. I would still recommend it highly, especially for those who want a story that tackles real-world issues with heart and depth.

Emotional and Courageous

Athena’s journey is a mix of bravery and struggle, and it’s told with so much emotional depth. I was especially touched by how she questions whether peaceful protests are enough and whether more radical action is required. That’s a question so many activists wrestle with today, and this story handles it in such a thought-provoking way. Isa McManus delivers the narration with incredible conviction, making every scene come alive. It’s a must-listen for anyone who cares about the planet or simply loves powerful storytelling.

Raw, Real, Relentless

This is one of the most emotionally intense YA audiobooks I’ve listened to. Athena’s inner world is painted vividly—her anger, her hopelessness, and her spark of rebellion. She’s not just reacting to a disaster; she’s fighting back. The writing is honest, and Isa McManus breathes life into the character beautifully. This isn’t a sugarcoated coming-of-age story—it’s raw and real. And that’s exactly why it works so well.

Powerful Message, Slightly Fast-Paced

I really enjoyed this audiobook, especially Athena’s passion and moral drive. The story offers a much-needed perspective on climate justice from a teen voice. My only critique is that some parts felt rushed. A bit more breathing room would’ve made the emotional turns hit harder. Still, a fantastic listen overall.

Thought-Provoking and Brave

The story is ambitious and takes important risks. I appreciated how it didn’t shy away from the harsh realities of climate inaction. Athena’s radical approach will definitely spark conversation. While I wish a few supporting characters had more depth, the central message and pacing are strong. A brave book that challenges norms and inspires thought.