With understated naturalism, Rob Shapiro introduces listeners to Sid Caesar, the first comic superstar of television. From 1949 to 1957, as many as 60 million viewers tuned in weekly to Caesar's inspired improvisational sketch comedy juggernauts, "Your Show of Shows" and "Caesar's Hour." Caesar's writers' room of protégés such as Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, and Neil Simon went on to influence the entertainment world for close to 70 years. Shapiro's delivery reflects the author's emphatic, almost argumentative, opinion that even with his volatile temper, self-doubt, addictions, and professional burnout, Caesar should be fondly remembered. Who's forgetting? The rags-to-riches story of a Jewish boy from Yonkers practically inventing television comedy is the stuff of legend.
Pub Date: Nov. 11, 2025
Duration: 13 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217165575
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The late Reiner recounts the bizarre origin of the mock rock band Spinal Tap and traces its evolution through the past 40 years. With band members Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, Reiner talks tongue-in-cheek about the world's most infamous fake band. They narrate in and out of character about the craziness of the movie project, which was pitched with no script or budget. The guest list of music celebrities in the audiobook seems endless. McKean, Shearer, and Guest are actors and writers who have appeared in countless movies and television shows, both serious and comedic. Spinal Tap is their way of letting off steam with inside jokes about the rock industry that surprisingly hit very close to home. Hilarious--a must for Spinal Tap fans.
Pub Date: Nov. 25, 2025
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668123904
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Award-winning performer Cynthia Erivo narrates her own memoir in which she focuses on what it means to fully embrace yourself, even if others do not. Today, Erivo is beloved for her role as Elphaba in the film adaptation of the musical WICKED, but as a child she was frequently told she asked too many questions and to stop being "too much." Performing her story herself, Erivo takes back her power. As she explores her own life, she takes time to ask listeners about their own experiences. With her performance skills and melodic voice, Erivo captures listeners' attention and leaves them feeling inspired to be themselves.
Pub Date: Nov. 18, 2025
Duration: 3 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250435156
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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