Catherine Ho beautifully narrates this newly translated, prize-winning 2009 Japanese novel. Twenty-something Takako has lost interest in everything except sleeping after she's dumped by her cheating colleague and quits her job. With few options, she moves into the used bookstore owned by her quirky uncle, Satoru. Despite her reluctance, she grows into a voracious reader and is able to help her uncle and new friends. Ho's meticulous narration is spoken in a hushed tone that is perfect for the quiet space of a bookstore. The audiobook includes an author's note that lists classic Japanese authors and their books that have been translated into English.
Pub Date: 2023
Duration: 5 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780063278691
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this sequel to Terms of Endearment, Larry McMurtry brings back Aurora Greenway, who is now dealing with her various lovers and friends plus three grown grandchildren with a variety of problems. He presents a tale of growing up and growing old which is bittersweet and funny. Narrator Ivey uses a slight east Texas accent which authenticates the setting of the story. Each character's voice has a slightly different inflection to differentiate it. It all works together well. As you listen, you feel as if you might actually be in Houston sharing the lives of these resilient and refreshing people.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 20 hrs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An unusual and inspiring piece of WWII propaganda, this 1942 novella was composed as a play, published as a book and made into a finely acted film. Steinbeck presents an impossibly noble Norwegian village under Fascist occupation. George Guidall’s wonted cordiality makes him sound like a warm-hearted neighbor inviting you to make yourself comfortable in his parlor. And the experience and technique of his many years as an actor and audiobook narrator enable him to give this work’s many characters individuality and soul without resorting to vocal tricks. He has wisely chosen simplicity and sincerity as the best approach. It’s an amazing and immensely satisfying performance of--if not one of the greatest of Steinbeck’s works--then one of the best paeans to liberty and community of its age.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781101530948
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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