Lawrence Wright lives in Austin, Texas, a funky "blue freckle" in a red state. He tours both the physical and political landscapes of Texas, offering both criticism and defense for his home in the wake of a national political shift. Wright doesn't speak with a twang anymore, but he demonstrates it occasionally as he quotes other natives. His soft-spoken narration is engaging, with the wry turns of phrase creeping up on listeners. He takes listeners on a tour of diverse, affordable Houston and reports debate over transgender bathroom rights in the state legislature. He also recalls the gubernatorial career of a radio personality who presaged President Trump.
Pub Date: April 17, 2018
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780525588986
Publisher: Random House 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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