In her introduction, Patchett explains that this essay collection “bears the stamp of a writer who got her start in women’s magazines: It is full of example and advice.” Blending astute observation with humor, Patchett’s performance is skilled; her sometimes droll and always friendly sounding voice is the perfect medium for her message. Here, Patchett shares her views on marriage but also on writing, friendship, opening a bookstore, and the joys and sorrows of dog ownership—all challenging but fulfilling endeavors. There’s something so down to earth, so unsentimental about her approach that listeners will feel as though they are sitting and reflecting on life’s for-better-or-for worse moments with a particularly perceptive and entertaining friend.
Pub Date: Nov. 5, 2013
Duration: 11 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780062282873
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
James Michener tells the real stories behind the man and his books. The recording is read with skill and consistency although the reader does little to enhance the robust, larger-than-life incidents related in the book. Due to the first-person narrative format, there is no opportunity for the narrator to change his voice. This makes some chapters monotonous as they go on and on in the typical Michener style. The listener may also become confused because the stories are not told chronologically. This is not a great choice for the audio format, but Michener fans may stick with it to the end.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 22 hrs
Publisher: Books on Tape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In a quest for a sense of inner contentment and self-worth, Gloria Steinem brings the reader on a journey of investigation and discovery. Steinem reads the text herself in a straightforward and friendly, but not intimate, presentation which is so easy to listen to it invites repetition--thus ensuring the painless relearning of the lessons of the book. It's difficult to tell from the reading that this audiobook is abridged; each section can stand alone. Nonetheless, the listener wished the book were unabridged. Steinem left me wanting to learn more.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Dove Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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