An exhaustive and, indeed, sometimes surprising history.
Jones, a former congressional staffer, offers a detailed, articulate, and engaging examination of the history of the iconic U.S. Capitol building. With crisp, precise pacing and tone, narrator Robert Petkoff exhibits enthusiasm, erudition, and confidence. The contemporary style of the narration contrasts with the nearly 300-year history of the building. Little-known facts and trivia abound—such as the unused basement crypt intended for George Washington’s remains. Washington preferred his Mount Vernon home for that purpose. The work is organized by each major era in American history from 1790 to the present, with an emphasis on the architectural and cultural significance of the building’s evolution and its philosophical underpinnings. There’s petty, vicious, and occasionally violent fighting between personalities, including our Founding Fathers.
An exhaustive and, indeed, sometimes surprising history.Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Duration: 14 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217285631
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: July 21, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 2026
Karen Chilton's fluid alto is a good fit for this biography of Thomas Jefferson. The authors are more or less successful in their attempt to present the third president in the context of his times. What we are presented with is a very human being--possessing great intellect, filled with flaws and contradictions, and still immensely fascinating nearly three centuries after his birth. Chilton's pacing and inflection are never off. She narrates with a calm demeanor, competently affecting various accents for quotes and ably giving subtle expression to the narrative. It all adds up to an enjoyable listening experience.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2016
Duration: 14 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781501909993
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator David Shih impeccably introduces renowned artist Ai Weiwei, whose outspoken stand on the freedoms denied in China has made him a government target. Here he looks at 100 years of Chinese history through his life and that of his father, Ai Qing, a well-known poet. Shih faultlessly captures Ai Weiwei's first-person story and gracefully recites Ai Qing's magnificent poetry. Both men's imprisonment is powerfully conveyed, along with descriptions of cities, remote villages, and vibrant conversations with famous and ordinary people. Ai Weiwei's activism is more widely covered than his art. His sadness, sarcasm, optimism, and wit, as well as quotes from his young son, are enlivened by Shih's considerable skill. Audio enhances this unflinching look at China and an extraordinary man.
Pub Date: Nov. 2, 2021
Duration: 13 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780399567537
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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