Frank McCourt specializes in writing about survival of childhood, of emigration, and now in his new memoir, of New York City's public schools. After hearing of his adventures teaching the future plumbers and beauticians of America-he kept a lid on utter chaos by telling stories from his own life--the listener will be as glad as the author was when he finally arrives at the prestigious Stuyvesant High, where he uses recipes to teach creative writing. The author's voice is characterized by his bemused brogue, but flashes of anger also abound, the vestiges of a deprived childhood. His impersonations of his students' constant interruptions are filled with affection and respect. McCourt's storytelling is, once again, mesmerizing. And if you're a teacher, so much the better.
Pub Date: Nov. 15, 2005
Duration: 9 hrs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster 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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