Jenny Slate narrates her collection of personal essays, and its title confirms her recognition that she’s created something new. Elements of prose poems; reflective musings; fairy tales; works on identity, love, and loss, among many other subjects, offer intimate glimpses of Slate’s creative, quirky mind. Listeners shouldn’t expect the comedy Slate’s often known for. Here the author sounds more wistful, contemplative, and searching than funny, with humor appearing as an occasional byproduct of her sifting through past experiences, rather than as a goal. Listening becomes an adventure filled with surprises, not just in subject matter but also in presentation, as Slate adds meaning through vocal variation, perfectly toned asides, emphasis, and a highlighting of internal rhymes that help pieces connect on a subconscious—if not always literal—level. J.C.G. 2021 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine
Pub Date: Nov. 5, 2019
Duration: 4 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781549142352
Publisher: Hachette 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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