In the preface, Dame Judi herself tells listeners that this memoir is not intended as an autobiography but as an addendum to John Miller's earlier biographies. Actress Samantha Bond then takes over the first-person narration. Bond’s voice is elegant, charming, and full of pep and vinegar as she recounts snippets of Dench’s life and remarkable career. The memoir takes listeners from her first role as Ophelia in HAMLET at the Old Vic to her more recent TV and film work. Generous with her praise of fellow actors and directors, Dame Judi candidly expresses strong likes and dislikes, revealing a keen sense of humor, a puckish penchant for pranks, and devotion to her family and her career. Bond’s performance adds sparkle to this delightful audiobook.
Pub Date: Feb. 15, 2011
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Macmillan 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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