Christine Lakin delivers this audiobook about the politics of Helen Keller, an early-twentieth-century deafblind disability rights activist. The story of how she learned to communicate at the age of 7, dramatized in the 1959 play THE MIRACLE WORKER, captured the hearts of Americans, and she became an iconic figure. But many people didn't know she was a member of the Socialist Party. In particular, she campaigned against lynchings and child labor and for women's suffrage. Lakin echoes the author's doubt about claims that Keller eventually moderated her leftist views, claims intended to appease her public. When not detailing Keller's political activities, Lakin gives a bittersweet quality to a brief romance and warmly recounts her vaudeville tour with her childhood teacher, Annie Sullivan.
Pub Date: April 11, 2023
Duration: 12 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668620915
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Manchester’s incisive writing and Parker’s friendly narration make this a compelling package on the life of 20th century icon General Douglas MacArthur (1880-1964). No student of modern times can ignore this vain, mercurial soldier whose battlefield brilliance conserved the lives of his soldiers even as they cut their opponents to ribbons. Listening to Parker, one imagines a jovial uncle delivering a slap on the back and sitting down to describe war experiences in a rich voice filled with humor and pathos. He pronounces Japanese names, New Guinea cities and American slang with effortless ease. The “you-are-there” quality grabs and holds. This is a carefully done, seamless audio presentation.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 16 hrs
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This well-told tale of love and courage during WWII would make a good miniseries.
This story of love, endurance, and heroism in a time of war translates well to audio. That it’s a true story makes it all the better. Reed Peggram was an American linguist who found love when he went to Europe for advanced study prior to WWII. He refused to return to the U.S. because his male partner couldn’t emigrate. They ended up in a Nazi prison camp. Russell Jordan offers a solid narration. His even voice carries the narrative along effectively without false drama. His facility with foreign names and places keeps things flowing. Nicole Cash narrates the touching and enlightening preface, in itself a worthy story of diligence and serendipity.
This well-told tale of love and courage during WWII would make a good miniseries.Pub Date: Feb. 3, 2026
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217281695
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 9, 2026
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