Califano's fascinating peek behind the screen at LBJ's presidency is filled with delicious detail about one of the most controversial political figures of the last century. Narrator Norman Dietz uses clear diction and a measured pace to deliver a perfectly adequate rendering of the text, but his presentation fails to capture Johnson's famously outsized personality and energy. Along with insights into LBJ's humanitarianism and legendary political mastery, the listener is also treated to many crude anecdotes and incidents that were considered colorful in the '60s but are decidedly cringe-worthy in today's more politically correct atmosphere. Despite a lackluster narration, this is a worthwhile listen with broad audience appeal, especially given today's social changes and political climate.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2015
Duration: 17 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Karen Chilton's fluid alto is a good fit for this biography of Thomas Jefferson. The authors are more or less successful in their attempt to present the third president in the context of his times. What we are presented with is a very human being--possessing great intellect, filled with flaws and contradictions, and still immensely fascinating nearly three centuries after his birth. Chilton's pacing and inflection are never off. She narrates with a calm demeanor, competently affecting various accents for quotes and ably giving subtle expression to the narrative. It all adds up to an enjoyable listening experience.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2016
Duration: 14 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781501909993
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
It's hard to imagine that the horror of 9/11 took place within a window of a mere 102 minutes, but indeed it was so. Be prepared for harrowing and heroic accounts gleaned from every possible source--phone messages, police and fire department communications, personal accounts, even the media--delineating the details at Ground Zero. Reader Ron McLarty handles the job with strong characterizations and the intensity the material demands. Listeners will find it hard to turn away from the nightmare but will find redemption in some of the stories of self-sacrifice that saved many lives. D.J.B. 2006 Audie Award Finalist © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2004
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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