When the venerable Brooke Astor died at the age of 105 in 1997, her substantial estate was already the subject of a lawsuit. In the previous year, Mrs. Astor's grandson Philip had sued his father—Mrs. Astor's only child, Anthony Marshall—declaring that Marshall's inadequate care constituted elder abuse and that he illegally absconded with her $185-million fortune. Lorna Raver's crisp narration is a good match for this thorough, well-researched account of Mrs. Astor's fascinating life and the ensuing family dispute. Like the author, Raver maintains a respectful tone, avoiding the lurid, frenzied pitch adopted by the tabloids that covered Marshall's 2009 trial. Raver's narration portrays Mrs. Astor's charm, wit, and passion for fulfilling friendships, along with her steely ambition.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2009
Duration: 14 hrs
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
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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