The listener, of course, knows the catastrophe that's ahead. But this dramatic audio history of Japan's rising militarism in the 1930s, based on American Ambassador Joseph Grew's extensive diaries, confirms the Hitchcockian theory that suspense is generated not by surprise, but by expectation. Narrator Dan Woren is, as always, matchless. Given a narrative so powerfully built but at times bewilderingly tangled, Woren demonstrates his command both of the central arc of the narrative and of its finer nuances and shadings. Ambassador Grew was a keen observer and strong advocate for peace. Woren captures the unique, on-the-spot perspective of a dedicated ambassador who watched helplessly as, step by step, Japan advanced into war with the United States.
Pub Date: Nov. 8, 2022
Duration: 12 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063274587
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Manchester’s incisive writing and Parker’s friendly narration make this a compelling package on the life of 20th century icon General Douglas MacArthur (1880-1964). No student of modern times can ignore this vain, mercurial soldier whose battlefield brilliance conserved the lives of his soldiers even as they cut their opponents to ribbons. Listening to Parker, one imagines a jovial uncle delivering a slap on the back and sitting down to describe war experiences in a rich voice filled with humor and pathos. He pronounces Japanese names, New Guinea cities and American slang with effortless ease. The “you-are-there” quality grabs and holds. This is a carefully done, seamless audio presentation.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 16 hrs
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This well-told tale of love and courage during WWII would make a good miniseries.
This story of love, endurance, and heroism in a time of war translates well to audio. That it’s a true story makes it all the better. Reed Peggram was an American linguist who found love when he went to Europe for advanced study prior to WWII. He refused to return to the U.S. because his male partner couldn’t emigrate. They ended up in a Nazi prison camp. Russell Jordan offers a solid narration. His even voice carries the narrative along effectively without false drama. His facility with foreign names and places keeps things flowing. Nicole Cash narrates the touching and enlightening preface, in itself a worthy story of diligence and serendipity.
This well-told tale of love and courage during WWII would make a good miniseries.Pub Date: Feb. 3, 2026
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217281695
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Feb. 9, 2026
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