NBC's Washington bureau chief "reports” his family's history after his father's death, after interviewing relatives and others about their lives. Narrator Robertson Dean embodies Whitaker's emotions—both angry and tender—over the breakdown of his parents' interracial marriage and his father's adultery and alcoholism. At times, Whitaker's reportage lets listeners see the challenges facing successful African-Americans and the workings of NEWSWEEK, the magazine Whitaker once edited. Despite—or perhaps because of—the conflicts with his family, Whitaker's father becomes a lively, fascinating figure, his struggles clear under a surface of bravado. This is not a memoir for those looking for an insider view of Washington, even if Whitaker touches on coverage of the Monica Lewinsky story. However, it is both personal and historical.
Pub Date: Nov. 21, 2011
Duration: 11 hrs, 30 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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