Twain's twang, as delivered by Jason Culp, runs through this compelling and comprehensive audiobook like a vein of gold. He convincingly portrays the great humorist in all his guises--raconteur, lecturer, parent, public figure, wit, and philosopher--homespun and not. Culp expertly narrates the exposition (and in a 44-hour biography there's plenty) and modulates his voice and pitch for different speakers. But it's in his emulation of the tone and timing of the old rakehell himself that Culp sparkles. Chernow, master biographer of Washington, Hamilton, and Grant, turns his considerable skills as a researcher, writer, and interpreter to America's greatest wit. Twain, who was among the most famous people of his time, made poor investments but good copy.
Pub Date: May 13, 2025
Duration: 44 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593951842
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: March 15, 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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