Narrator Dominic Hoffman doubles the enjoyment one might feel from the printed version of this book. His articulate, soft voice with sibilant s’s could credibly be the author telling of his extensive research into the genealogies of the 19 African-Americans he chose as subjects. Most are celebrities—Maya Angelou, Morgan Freeman, Oprah Winfrey—but the research methods, such as DNA analysis, used to uncover the depersonalization of slavery could apply to every person of African descent in America. Hoffman employs both subtle and vivid characterizations for the many individuals whose words he expresses. He can pronounce the names of the ancient and modern regions of Africa like a native speaker. Hoffman's style seems so natural that listeners may never be aware of his polished technique.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2009
Duration: 16 hrs, 15 mins
Publisher: Books on Tape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Carol Matthau epitomizes a glamour and lifestyle not associated with the 1990's. Here is a life of privilege, tragedy and worry about what friends would think of her new frock or lover. Matthau possesses a voice and delivery that simply could not be improved on. In her coy whisper, she tells compelling stories involving everyone from William Saroyan (husband #1) and Truman Capote to Carson McCullers, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Walter Matthau (husband #2). This excellent audio presentation will leave you wanting to read the entire book to discover what juicy tidbits were left out.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: The Publishing Mills
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
As America celebrates its semiquincentennial, it’s enlightening to look back at how the country celebrated its...
The Great Centennial Exhibition was designed to celebrate a century of U.S. history and progress and to make a statement that the country was a technological and diplomatic world leader as the globe looked toward the 20th century. Author Bordewich frames his chronicle of the exhibition by focusing on four key figures—President Rutherford B. Hayes; Alexander Graham Bell; railroad magnate Tom Scott, who spearheaded the fair; and sculptor Edmonia Lewis, whose work broke racial and gender barriers. Narrator Sean Patrick Hopkins’ conversational tone perfectly suits the material. He adds a bit of lilt for humorous and ironic passages. His pace makes it easy to follow the material, and the author’s writing style adapts well to audio.
As America celebrates its semiquincentennial, it’s enlightening to look back at how the country celebrated its centennial.Pub Date: June 9, 2026
Duration: 8 hrs, 12 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217340187
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: June 30, 2026
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