This book defies convention. The true story of the author's life with a Russian rabbi is at times charming, at times hysterical, and at times tedious. Overall, Dana's story of her relationship with a 30-year-jujitsu-practicing rabbi is a unique adventure that will introduce many listeners to the world of Lubavitch Jews. Dana's writing and delivery are generally entertaining, and clearly she relishes discussing this chapter of her life, before closing the door on it. However, there are times when the material drags and as narrator Dana sounds as though she's lost her focus. Overall, the memoir leaves one feeling that Dana has let us see only a bit of herself and, like the Lubavitch community, keeps many deep feelings private.
Pub Date: Jan. 24, 2013
Duration: 6 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781101605028
Publisher: Penguin 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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