Kinda Like Brothers

By: Coe Booth

Narrated by: John Clarence Stewart

Length: 5 hrs and 53 mins

Publisher's Summary

Jarrett doesn't trust Kevon.

But he's got to share a room with him anyway.

It was one thing when Jarrett's mom took care of foster babies who needed help. But this time it's different. This time the baby who needs help has an older brother - a kid Jarrett's age named Kevon. Everyone thinks Jarrett and Kevon should be friends - but that's not gonna happen. Not when Kevon's acting like he's better than Jarrett - and not when Jarrett finds out Kevon's keeping some major secrets. Jarrett doesn't think it's fair that he has to share his room, his friends, and his life with some stranger. He's gotta do something about it - but what? From award-winning author Coe Booth, Kinda Like Brothers is the story of two boys who really don't get along - but have to find a way to figure it out.

©2014 Coe Booth (P)2014 ListenUp Production, LLC

Very diverse

Would you consider the audio edition of Kinda Like Brothers to be better than the print version?

Since the narrator can make the audio I actually think this is awesome on audio, I would never had had the time to read it and the narrator was outstanding.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Kinda Like Brothers?

There is a part where I think Jarrett says to his principal I hate to read, the principal says so did I now look at all these books. If you know me (dyslexic librarian) it is quite funny.

Have you listened to any of John Clarence Stewart’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

No but would love too, he was awesome.

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

Yes to bad my comute is too short and boss wouldn't like it very much.

Wonderful Coming of Age Story

Would you listen to Kinda Like Brothers again? Why?

Yes! I really enjoyed listening to the character development and think Coe Booth is a fantastic writer.

Who was your favorite character and why?

I loved the intensity of all of the characters, especially listening to how Kevon and Jarrett's relationship changes as the story progresses.

What about John Clarence Stewart’s performance did you like?

I really enjoyed his character voices. I felt he captured the tone of the young characters.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It is a wonderful coming of age story that is definitely a roller coaster of emotions.

Relatable Story and Immersive Performance

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes! It's a real coming of age story. John Clarence Stewart brings the listener along with him through real dilemmas, real frustrations, real highs and real lows; all the while, the characters develop, valuable lessons are learned and some are missed. A wonderful read for all middle grade readers. Often times, young adult authors sugar coat things. They seem reluctant to express the realism of certain situations or they shy away from them entirely, leaning toward the magical, mystical, fantasy side of things. Not Coe Booth. Booth paints a realistic picture and Stewart brings it to life!

Engaging Coming of Age Story

Any additional comments?

A fascinating glimpse into the lives of two young men, Kevon and Jarrett, and how through their separate, yet both difficult, family experiences they learn essential qualities to become strong men. John Clarence Stewart's narration is engaging, a natural story teller he is, and he draws you into the story as if you were experiencing it first hand. I highly recommend a listen!

Wonderful Narrator Performance!

What did you like best about this story?

The bottom line here is - acceptance. How do we learn to accept each other and learn to live with one another peacefully and respectfully? Not only learning to appreciate people for their differences, but also do so while growing up and finding out who you are. This would be a great book for children around age 8 and for school and any scholastic-related programs.

Any additional comments?

The narration on this book was so fabulous - John Clarence Stewart really made the characters jump off the page and brought them to life. I felt like I was with them in the moment, not just listening to a story. And with the diversity of this book, he captured the essence of the story. Great voice - very inviting and engaging!

it was really good

it was good it was sad when someone died thigh hhrhdhdhhdhdhdbdbfjdhf dhdjdjfjf. th th. th

Pretty good ;)

The narrator was pretty bad at acting (or speaking like a girl. otherwise he was the best narrator I heard from (so far).

Real & Relevant

What did you love best about Kinda Like Brothers?

The characters were very authentic. The boys disliked each other for no real reason, which was frustrating as a reader, but relatable as a human being. Their struggles, though, were real. The issues they faced and discussed struck me as important and valuable. As an adult, I could relate to the characters, I think middle grade listeners would relate even more.

Any additional comments?

John Clarence Stewart narrated this so well. I loved his character voices and the way he voiced Jarrett's inner monologue. His voice was easy to listen to and still sounded young and vulnerable. I can't wait to hear more from him!