Especially recommended for writers who want a dynamic new take on standard grammar rules.
Lamott and Allen, who have been married for nine years, conarrate this book about the craft of writing. Allen begins the introduction with a confident, straightforward overview of his own rules for making sentences sparkle. Lamott continues with “Anne’s take,” her voice warm as she responds to Allen’s comments, praises his skills as an editor, and discusses the evolution of their collaboration. Her contributions are playful and inviting, bringing lightness to Allen’s erudition. Thirty-six meaningful rules follow, from using strong verbs to worshipping talented editors. Lamott and Allen's shared passion for language always shines through, though she sometimes leads listeners on humorous detours.
Especially recommended for writers who want a dynamic new take on standard grammar rules.Pub Date: March 17, 2026
Duration: 4 hrs, 39 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217294473
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: April 11, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 2026
Dan Harris traces his experience finding a quieter, more peaceful mind, and life, through the unlikely pursuit of meditation. Deeply skeptical, he’s ultimately convinced by the scientific research showing meditation’s benefits. Harris says the voice in his head, the “inner narrator” he seeks to quiet, is a “total pill”—a voice that “comes braying in, heckling us all day with an air horn.” Unfortunately, his own narration has a way of grating on the ear, especially when he’s describing meditation with a cynical, yet-to-be converted eye or taking a competitive approach to mindfulness. Eventually, the ear adjusts and listeners can absorb interesting glimpses into Harris’s life as a broadcaster and his journey with meditation. However, some still may prefer to read the book to themselves.
Pub Date: March 11, 2014
Duration: 7 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780062331892
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
While a brief introduction to this audiobook is voiced by Dick Van Dyke himself, the balance is assigned to his friend Tom Bergeron. He does a remarkable, impeccable, and simply wonderful job, narrating with a rhythm and tonality similar to Van Dyke's. One might believe one is listening to the 100-year-old actor himself. In addition to talking about his life, Van Dyke also quite candidly describes living with the health and mobility issues that have touched him in his most recent years. Throughout the presentation, anecdotes and vignettes thoughtfully portray the pivotal influences on the man and his sensibilities. The novel approach of presenting the ever optimistic Van Dyke's "rules for living" works effectively.
Pub Date: Nov. 18, 2025
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668652992
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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