What makes a killer kill--nature or nurture? Could it be something else entirely? Narrator Patty Nieman guides listeners through this expansive exploration of one theory behind the rise of the American serial killer in the 1970s-80s. The author, herself raised in Washington State during this time period, methodically builds the case that the proliferation of American serial killers, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, strongly correlates to the rise of industrial pollution via lead smelters in those areas. Nieman's steady tones and solemn but engaging pacing generate rising dismay as the backgrounds of legendary monsters like Ted Bundy and Gary Ridgway are intertwined with the often sordid histories of industrial manufacturing conglomerates operating with little to no regulation.
Pub Date: June 10, 2025
Duration: 16 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217021390
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Carol Matthau epitomizes a glamour and lifestyle not associated with the 1990's. Here is a life of privilege, tragedy and worry about what friends would think of her new frock or lover. Matthau possesses a voice and delivery that simply could not be improved on. In her coy whisper, she tells compelling stories involving everyone from William Saroyan (husband #1) and Truman Capote to Carson McCullers, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Walter Matthau (husband #2). This excellent audio presentation will leave you wanting to read the entire book to discover what juicy tidbits were left out.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: The Publishing Mills
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A beautifully narrated history.
Narrator Leon Nixon takes a storyteller’s approach to this audiobook about one of pop music's most recognizable albums. More than 40 years ago, musician Paul Simon was deeply moved by a cassette tape of music with no identifying labels. The search for the artists on that tape, who were performing an African genre known as township jive, eventually led to the creation of Simon’s seminal album Graceland. The audiobook tracks Simon’s creative process, his journey to assemble the artists, and the complicated political structures that made the album controversial, and inspired a conversation that still continues. What's not debatable is the lasting legacy of Simon's work. Nixon conveys this story with a natural, compelling quality that's consistently engrossing.
A beautifully narrated history.Pub Date: Aug. 11, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 11 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668143322
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Sept. 8, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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