Narrator Joe Barrett's voice is learned, rugged, and dry--the perfect fit for Packer's political biography, which spans decades as it follows career diplomat Richard Holbrooke from the Vietnam War to the war in Afghanistan. Packer's audiobook doesn't polish Holbrooke's story; his personal flaws and fierce political ambition are on full display. His intellect and political instincts make for a compelling listen. Stories weave between historical events--Holbrooke hoped to be the man to end the war in Afghanistan--and personal intrigue--consider his relationship with and mentorship of journalist Diane Sawyer. Holbrooke's life provides listeners with a unique context of the U.S.'s role in world events. Barrett's observant performance captures the persona of a field-weary insider.
Pub Date: May 7, 2019
Duration: 20 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780525637837
Publisher: Random House 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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