Narrator Karen Murray does a great job with the characters in this speculative look at the post-Civil-War experiences of Black people. She uses accents that suggest class for direct quotations, and her performance of the narrative is steady and well paced. The author employs the story of Priscilla Joyner, a Black girl born into a slave-holding household, to explore the trials and fates of those whose lives were changed so dramatically by emancipation. Because so much about her subjects is unknown, Emberton relies on phrases such as "perhaps" or "may have" to fill in some of the blanks. While this educated guesswork may bother some listeners, it should not detract from the overall quality of Emberton's research and Murray's performance.
Pub Date: March 8, 2022
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593608937
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Soft-voiced narrator Danielle Lee James becomes the author as she recounts her research into the life, accomplishments, and trials of Mary MacLeod Bethune, who was often called the "First Lady of the Struggle" or "First Lady of Black America." Author Noliwe Rooks's brief academic work focuses on Bethune's political philosophy as it is intertwined with the life and legacy of this consequential twentieth- century woman who dared to fight the system for Black women and girls. Using subtle pauses and changes in pacing, James skillfully moves listeners' attention between discussions of Bethune's life and the author's reflections on Bethune's accomplishments, including her crucial work with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, Presidents Truman and FDR, and other national leaders.
Pub Date: July 23, 2024
Duration: 3 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593864715
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator Janina Edwards gives an exceptional presentation of this biographical examination of Harriet Tubman. This audiobook compares the work of Tubman and other known civil rights activists in the pre-Civil War period. Edwards effectively delivers the vignettes of Tubman's life, complete with Southern accents and the local vernacular of the era. Tubman endured more physical abuse and mental hardships in her lifetime than any other activist. Most did not physically help hundreds of slaves gain their freedom. Edwards creates a realistic portrait of the woman, her life and loves, and what drove her into action. There is new information embedded in this portrait that will amaze most listeners. Edwards's clear admiration for this hero resonates in her voice and performance.
Pub Date: June 18, 2024
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593864395
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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