The fashion magazine industry of the 1940s is wonderfully realized by Carlotta Brentan's energetic, intelligent performance. Many in the fashion industry at that time came from socially prominent families, and Kathryn and Frances McLaughlin, the identical twin fashion photographers at the center of this narrative, were no exception. Brentan's bright tone and lively pace highlight the twins' privileged upbringing, forthright manner, and strong work ethic. As the narrative shifts from Kathryn's and Frances's personal and work lives to the fashion industry as a whole, listeners learn of how photographs were replacing illustrations and drawings as the means to capture women's interest in fashions. With WWII in the background and the lack of diverse representation in fashion, Brentan's polished narration captures a moment in time when photography was becoming part of mainstream media.
Pub Date: 2024
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781797174297
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Jennifer Jill Araya's bright tone and dynamic pacing pair well with Vincent's accessible prose to engage listeners. The audiobook is not quite as dramatic as its title implies, serving instead as an introduction to the art form that highlights occasional industry controversies. However, Vincent does make a strong case for opera as a living genre, arguing that newcomers should join the audience and that aficionados should make room for newer works. Vincent champions operas beyond the European canon, whose famous Italian and German titles Araya pronounces with musicality and accuracy. Araya catches the humor in Vincent's perspective on the supposedly serious opera world. A light, fun, and informative listening experience.
Pub Date: 2026
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668125038
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this celebratory retrospective of Dolly Parton's career, the singer-songwriter delivers stories of her life and music in her bright, warm voice and distinctive country twang. Coauthor and narrator Tom Roland joins narrators Charlie Chase and Lorianne Crook (both TV and radio hosts) in providing biographical transitions and prompts for Parton. Crook adds humor as Parton describes her humble beginnings and hard work, starting with county fairs. In a conversational tone Parton encourages listeners to star in their own lives. Clips and musical interludes from Parton's show enhance this audiobook's entertainment value.
Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217165940
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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