The birth of the U.S. Navy and its coming-of-age in battle against the French, the Barabary/Tripolitan pirates, and the British are recounted in this work. In the 1790s, a new navy was built around six new frigates that incorporated numerous technological innovations. These ships, along with their leaders and crews, cemented many of the traditions of our naval service. Stephen Lang effortlessly displays the qualities that make him a popular narrator. Foremost is his consistency. As we hear of how USS Constitution earned her nickname of "Old Ironsides" and the audacity of the raiders led by Lt. Stephen Decatur to burn USS Philadelphia in Tripoli, we are treated to Lang's smooth baritone, subtle expression, and seemingly effortless delivery.
Pub Date: Oct. 3, 2006
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780743565295
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
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
Listeners will enjoy this thoughtful and informational journey across our nation.
On the cusp of America’s 250th birthday, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Gage embarks on a road trip to visit 13 locations across the country and explore the critical role that each played in forming the nation that exists today. Gage visits sites significant to the Revolutionary War, slavery, Native Americans, women’s suffrage, and more and delves into their histories, long-lasting aftereffects and, in some cases, how they've fared in modern America. Gabra Zackman is steady and measured as she details historical conflicts and tensions, and her tone is conversational when discussing individuals who made a lasting impact on the country. The introduction, read by Gage, is a highlight: She shares her reasons for writing the book and reflects on why engaging with our shared history is so important, especially today.
Listeners will enjoy this thoughtful and informational journey across our nation.Pub Date: April 7, 2026
Duration: 8 hrs, 43 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668104231
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: April 21, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Follow
Popular in this Genre
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
