Acclaimed history professor Nasaw provides a well-researched and absorbing biography of the pessimistic Kennedy. The subject’s varied roles as a financial speculator, real estate tycoon, U.S. ambassador, and movie studio owner are explored in great detail. Malcolm Hillgartner’s understated narration is spot-on for the task. His tone conveys authority, and his proper emphasis and pacing keep the listener engaged. Involved with virtually all of the significant worldwide events of his time, Kennedy tirelessly pursued many roles, including SEC chairmanship. Nasaw had the benefit of complete access to the family’s personal papers. Ambitious, unbridled, and relentless, this father of a U.S. president is presented in a sweeping and comprehensive work.
Pub Date: Nov. 13, 2012
Duration: 31 hrs
Publisher: Penguin Audio
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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