The narrator does a fantastic job of making this interesting story especially engaging. There are parts that lend itself well to an audiobook in that the listener can relish the mental images (such as those of eager young boys rushing to ice cream shops to be offered all the glorious flavors) but other parts that would be more difficult for any listener, especially younger ones. For example, when people are attempting to dissuade Francesco from opening his ice cream shop, the narrator lists numerous foods that would traditionally be more success in Hungary. Unless one is familiar with these foods, these words will simply fall flat (when it could be a learning opportunity such as in the original picture book).

Still, this is a great piece of creative nonfiction and would be a great addition to youth World War II collections.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
I'm always looking for historical fiction or even better real history adapted to children's literature, to add on to our history studies. This would be a fantastic elementary age add on to a WWII study. It was well written and engaging.
I think especially for young students I would prefer the picture book version, but the audiobook was a quick listen and well edited. In this scenario I would maybe have the kids color an ice cream cone while they listen along.