In a rich, warm timbre, Michelle Obama treats us to reminiscences and reflections on her life as though we were friends seated in her living room. No matter where you are on the political spectrum, the insights of “the other Obama” are interesting due to the sheer fact of her uniqueness. Her signature quiet confidence comes through every word as she narrates her story. From growing up on the South Side of Chicago to becoming America's first African-American first lady, Mrs. Obama is steady, measured, and detailed in her recollections. We accompany her from her family's home, full of extended family members and closeness, into the arms of a charismatic community organizer. Her words are laced throughout with a steely determination, the same quality that likely helped her weather Internet trolling and personal losses. This intimate listening experience allows us behind the public exterior and into the warm embrace of private revelations by one of our nation’s most beloved role models.
Pub Date: Nov. 13, 2018
Duration: 19 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780525633686
Publisher: Random House Audio
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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