There is a tremendous amount of information and analysis packed into this short book, another installment in the Penguin Lives series. In fact, it sounds like a scholarly monograph. Narrator Mari Devon's voice, though, is not up to the task. She reads the book in a thin, breathy tone that suggests a summer page-turner. Shamelessly overacting at times, she doesn't need to add more drama to one of the most riveting stories in history, especially in light of the fact that Gordon has written it very well. Technically, Devon needs to pay attention to pronunciation and pacing . Her attempts at French are admirable, but her English errors are too noticeable.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2000
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Books on Tape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Karen Chilton's fluid alto is a good fit for this biography of Thomas Jefferson. The authors are more or less successful in their attempt to present the third president in the context of his times. What we are presented with is a very human being--possessing great intellect, filled with flaws and contradictions, and still immensely fascinating nearly three centuries after his birth. Chilton's pacing and inflection are never off. She narrates with a calm demeanor, competently affecting various accents for quotes and ably giving subtle expression to the narrative. It all adds up to an enjoyable listening experience.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2016
Duration: 14 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781501909993
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This rags-to-riches memoir recounts the business life of Sam Wyly as he made his way from IBM salesman in the early 1960s to the owner of Sterling Software and Michael's stores, as well as a chain of restaurants, among other companies. Along the way, Wyly tells of his investment strategies, his business partners, his successes, and his failures. Phil Gigante reads this business story with a steady voice that lulls listeners instead of exciting them. In addition to the occasional odd pronunciation, Gigante's voice is barely modulated, and he fails to engage emotionally. Nonetheless, this title offers an interesting view of how to invest in your business, making it grow while weathering an ever-changing economy.
Pub Date: Sept. 1, 2008
Duration: 9 hrs
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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