This political memoir has all the makings of a unique, inspiring story. But it falls short in its execution, including its narration by the author. Jean-Pierre's story is truly compelling; she possesses a stunning amount of optimism and drive. She is the daughter of Haitian immigrants who finds herself, comes out as a lesbian, and pursues a political career that eventually lands her in the Obama White House. But the story sags with believe-in-yourself one-liners that fail to address the complexities of access and opportunity in a white supremacist society. Where these issues are addressed, they are glossed over. As narrator, Jean-Pierre discusses issues like racism and her own suicide attempt in the same bubbly tone she uses for funny anecdotes. Jean-Pierre's life and work are remarkable, but this memoir is not.
Pub Date: Nov. 5, 2019
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781488207297
Publisher: Harlequin 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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