Narrator Dominic Hoffman's deep, raspy voice guides listeners through the ever-changing world of Samuel Battle, the first African-American policeman in New York City in 1911. His biography proves a fascinating lens through which to explore race, urban life, and the monumental shifts in American culture in the first half of the twentieth century. Hoffman's cadence and emphasis draw out the stark contrasts of Battle's life as he struggled to maintain justice in a society that denied him equality in the eyes of the law. Hoffman adds the right amount of emotion and deliberation to capture Battle's challenges and triumphs. A strong narration and compelling story make this entire production a powerful experience.
Pub Date: Feb. 2, 2016
Duration: 13 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780399568961
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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