In the period from 1865-1900 the United States became an industrial power. Brands has written a history of large personalities and opportunities found and risks taken by a generation whose pent-up talents were stymied by the Civil War and then unleashed in a torrent of economic and social creativity. Robertson Dean has one of the most recognizable voices in audiobook narration, and his skills are on full display in this colossal work. His deep, round voice brushes the bottom of the sound scale, and he makes every word interesting and compelling. The combination of his pacing and diction is also terrific, which is no small feat considering the impressive length of this audiobook.
Pub Date: 2010
Duration: 23 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780307737472
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The readers can't compensate for the unbearably pompous prose style of this extended parable about corporate politics and strategy.
Pub Date:
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Media powerhouse Barry Diller, at 83, offers an articulate, humble, and utterly honest account of his varied life. Dillard's narration is workmanlike, moving the narrative forward in a somewhat monotonous manner. That unvaried tone sharply contrasts with the fascinating story of a young, not very aggressive personality who nonetheless became highly influential in the entertainment industry. It's all presented without much fanfare: the Paramount years, QVC, and HSN leadership roles, among others. Diller attributes his own cowardice and the societal norms of the 1950s and 1960s for staying silent on his homosexuality. He discusses the matter briefly, along with his successful marriage to fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg. His greatest assets were flexibility and good luck. This is a fascinating life story that requires patient listening.
Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 12 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668134993
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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