Despite his intimate connection to the “Beat Generation,” there was far more to Jack Kerouac. Johnson reveals the many sides of Kerouac in a way that allows even those who’ve never even heard of the man to appreciate his many talents. With Carrington MacDuffie at the mic, this biography soars. Johnson’s work is filled with insights into how Kerouac grew and morphed into the groundbreaking writer of ON THE ROAD and VISIONS OF CODY. Johnson dated Kerouac as a young woman, and MacDuffie captures her love and reverence for the man. Yet she somehow prepares the listener to expect the more difficult moments, not only for Kerouac, but also for Johnson herself in her relationship with him.
Pub Date: Sept. 13, 2012
Duration: 16 hrs, 45 mins
Publisher: Tantor Media
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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