Laura Jennings's narration is just as focused and steady as this lengthy biography of poet Sylvia Plath. The meticulous details of Plath's schooling, relationships with her parents, unique courtships, and female friendships, as well as the inner workings of her mind, unfold in yearly segments. There are moments when Jennings conveys passion, most often when it relates to Plath's literary heroes. Her voice takes on a matter-of-fact tone when discussing Plath's literary works and the traumas that led to her suicide. Jennings captures the spirit of this brilliant trailblazer who dealt with the conflicting pressures of prefeminist social norms and her quest to reach the highest level of excellence in her artistry.
Pub Date: Oct. 27, 2020
Duration: 45 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593292112
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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