Respected film expert and historian James Curtis offers a comprehensive and intriguing dive into the life and career of actor, comedian, and filmmaker Buster Keaton (1895-1966). Narrator David Pittu is an ideal choice for this lengthy but entertaining audiobook. While Pittu's nuanced, sensitive performance is a bit slow-paced, it's entirely absorbing--simply superb. Pittu slightly alters his voice when directly quoting voices beyond the author's and Keaton's. All of Keaton's vaudeville performances, along with his comedic "shorts" and feature films, are discussed, including behind-the-scenes stories and vignettes. His personal life is presented without a hint of the now-common sensationalism and exaggeration. Boomers may well become nostalgic as they remember Keaton's cameos in several beach party films of the 1960s. Treat yourself to the fun of Buster Keaton.
Pub Date: Feb. 15, 2022
Duration: 31 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593550984
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The late Reiner recounts the bizarre origin of the mock rock band Spinal Tap and traces its evolution through the past 40 years. With band members Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, Reiner talks tongue-in-cheek about the world's most infamous fake band. They narrate in and out of character about the craziness of the movie project, which was pitched with no script or budget. The guest list of music celebrities in the audiobook seems endless. McKean, Shearer, and Guest are actors and writers who have appeared in countless movies and television shows, both serious and comedic. Spinal Tap is their way of letting off steam with inside jokes about the rock industry that surprisingly hit very close to home. Hilarious--a must for Spinal Tap fans.
Pub Date: Nov. 25, 2025
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668123904
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Award-winning performer Cynthia Erivo narrates her own memoir in which she focuses on what it means to fully embrace yourself, even if others do not. Today, Erivo is beloved for her role as Elphaba in the film adaptation of the musical WICKED, but as a child she was frequently told she asked too many questions and to stop being "too much." Performing her story herself, Erivo takes back her power. As she explores her own life, she takes time to ask listeners about their own experiences. With her performance skills and melodic voice, Erivo captures listeners' attention and leaves them feeling inspired to be themselves.
Pub Date: Nov. 18, 2025
Duration: 3 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250435156
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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