Narrator Paul Woodson's resonant voice, measured pacing, and subtle expression transport the listener to WWII Occupied France through the lens of the artist Henri Matisse (1869-1954). Matisse, aging and in poor health, defiantly stayed in France and considered his groundbreaking new art form an act of resistance. Confined to his bed, he created the famous paper cutouts in bold colors that led up to his published book, JAZZ. Woodson's skillful use of French pronunciations for names, places, and phrases helps listeners visualize life among patriots and Resistance fighters, as well as everyday French citizens. While not a complete biography, the audiobook adds depth to our understanding of Matisse's relationships with his family and personal aides and of his thinking during this tumultuous period.
Pub Date: Sept. 30, 2025
Duration: 9 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9798331922528
Publisher: Tantor Media
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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