by Margaret Stohl , Jeanine Schaefer & Judith Stephens ; Read by Cassandra Campbell , Yinka Ladeinde , Todd Menesses , Soneela Nankani , Joy Osmanski & Jackie Sanders ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 24, 2025
While it may have taken the better part of a century, finally women have taken center stage in the comic book industry. But it wasn't easy. This wonderful, enlightening work recounts the women's fight to become part of the superhero rebirth at Marvel Comics, which started in 1961 with the first issue of the Fantastic Four. The audiobook is a joy to hear as an ensemble of performers stand in for creators like the great Flo Steinberg, who was Stan Lee's invaluable assistant (and his sometimes alter-ego), and a host of others over the years. The audiobook shows how women had to prove themselves and help each other until Marvel and the rest of the comics industry recognized their value.
Pub Date: June 24, 2025
Duration: 7 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781797185156
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
by Caitlin Vincent ; Read by Jennifer Jill Araya ‧ RELEASE DATE: Jan. 13, 2026
Jennifer Jill Araya's bright tone and dynamic pacing pair well with Vincent's accessible prose to engage listeners. The audiobook is not quite as dramatic as its title implies, serving instead as an introduction to the art form that highlights occasional industry controversies. However, Vincent does make a strong case for opera as a living genre, arguing that newcomers should join the audience and that aficionados should make room for newer works. Vincent champions operas beyond the European canon, whose famous Italian and German titles Araya pronounces with musicality and accuracy. Araya catches the humor in Vincent's perspective on the supposedly serious opera world. A light, fun, and informative listening experience.
Pub Date: Jan. 13, 2026
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668125038
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
by Dolly Parton & Tom Roland ; Read by Dolly Parton , Tom Roland , Lorianne Crook & Charlie Chase ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 11, 2025
In this celebratory retrospective of Dolly Parton's career, the singer-songwriter delivers stories of her life and music in her bright, warm voice and distinctive country twang. Coauthor and narrator Tom Roland joins narrators Charlie Chase and Lorianne Crook (both TV and radio hosts) in providing biographical transitions and prompts for Parton. Crook adds humor as Parton describes her humble beginnings and hard work, starting with county fairs. In a conversational tone Parton encourages listeners to star in their own lives. Clips and musical interludes from Parton's show enhance this audiobook's entertainment value.
Pub Date: Nov. 11, 2025
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217165940
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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