This memoir by the distinguished historian and past president of Harvard is ably narrated by the author, though at times her voice lacks the variation that a professional might bring. The result is a somber review of an unhappy youth spent rebelling against staid conventions of womanhood and whiteness. Covering the period from her childhood in the 1950s to her college graduation in 1968, the audiobook describes how her youthful interests shaped her professional future. A Civil Rights activist, she also protested the war in Vietnam, organized her classmates against sexist double standards, and later wrote two important books about the Civil War. Listeners learn about her unhappy but privileged childhood in Virginia, which prompted her decision to dedicate her life to social justice.
Pub Date: Aug. 22, 2023
Duration: 10 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781666643589
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Manchester’s incisive writing and Parker’s friendly narration make this a compelling package on the life of 20th century icon General Douglas MacArthur (1880-1964). No student of modern times can ignore this vain, mercurial soldier whose battlefield brilliance conserved the lives of his soldiers even as they cut their opponents to ribbons. Listening to Parker, one imagines a jovial uncle delivering a slap on the back and sitting down to describe war experiences in a rich voice filled with humor and pathos. He pronounces Japanese names, New Guinea cities and American slang with effortless ease. The “you-are-there” quality grabs and holds. This is a carefully done, seamless audio presentation.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 16 hrs
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A strong argument that leaders willing to govern from the center provide the best hope for the future of American government.
American politics appears to be dominated by extremists, but Barcott makes the case that effective government lies closer to the center. He profiles 10 politicians—military veterans and a former FBI agent—who are willing to cross party lines in order to pass legislation that is good for the country and not just one party’s agenda. Barcott offers a solid narration. His tone is conversational, and he carries listeners along nicely. He occasionally drops letters at the ends of words, and he adopts a generic New York accent for some of those profiled, both of which limit the effectiveness of his delivery.
A strong argument that leaders willing to govern from the center provide the best hope for the future of American government.Pub Date: June 9, 2026
Duration: 12 hrs, 28 mins
DD ISBN: 9798260200599
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Review Posted Online: Sept. 12, 2026
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