In just over a dozen essays, author-narrator Anna Quindlen looks at life from the far end of her 50s, reflecting on friendships, parenthood, marriage, materialism, mortality, and aging. Quindlen returns to her journalistic roots, using her well-loved personal style, which resonates broadly, especially with women of her generation. Taking a slightly conversational narrative approach, Quindlen creates an inviting atmosphere, making listeners feel as if they were sitting across the table from her, sipping coffee and swapping stories. Whether discussing the Baby Boomers' collective experience or her own best friend, Quindlen's exuberance is mirrored in her heartfelt reading. Her genuine emotions, although understated, shine throughout the performance, and listeners will quickly be nodding in agreement, wishing to share their own memories and opinions.
Pub Date: April 24, 2012
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780307989871
Publisher: Random House 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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