The Black Friend by Frederick Joseph, Read by Miebaca Yohannes

Every Monday through Friday, AudioFile’s editors recommend the best in audiobook listening. We keep our daily episodes short and sweet, with audiobook clips to give you a sample of our featured listens.

Miebaka Yohannes narrates The Black Friend with a conversational tone that mirrors Frederick Joseph’s engaging writing. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Emily Connelly discuss this YA audiobook that weaves together stories from Joseph’s own life and interviews with others to create an audiobook full of sincere and frank commentary. The audiobook touches on issues such as systemic racism, cultural appropriation, and becoming an “active accomplice.” Throughout, Yohannes amplifies the sincerity in Joseph’s writing—and the humor. Teen listeners will come away with a strengthened resolve to learn about and fight oppression.

***

To listen to the rest of the episode, as well as the whole archive of Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine, subscribe and listen on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, or wherever else you find your favorite podcasts.

Support for AudioFile’s Behind the Mic comes from Dreamscape Media. Publishers of bestselling audiobooks from classics like The Great Gatsby to suspenseful mysteries, to indulging romance to essential non-fictions that make your ears happy!