Nina Willner's memoir features her mother, who escaped to West Berlin, leaving her family behind the Iron Curtain. At 20, Hanna embraces her newfound freedom but is filled with worry about her family. Cassandra Campbell's narration depicts the period of the Cold War well and conveys a deep longing that mirrors Hanna's pain and loss. News of her family through the years gives Hanna assurances that her family remains close and is thriving in spite of the Communist regime. Campbell's portrayal of Hanna's emotional arc reflects a deep understanding of self-preservation and love of family.
Pub Date: Oct. 4, 2016
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780062564856
Publisher: Harper 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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