The British term "boffin"--for scientists, engineers, and technicians-- emerged in WWII to identify those working behind the scenes to win the war through technological innovation. This is the first popular survey of the pre-boffins: those who supported Britain in WWI. The engaging stories cover the development of airplanes, code breaking, poison gas, propaganda, and other boffin-like activities. Derek Perkins is one of the great audiobook narrators. His clear and well-paced performance makes Downing's sometimes technical explanations easy to follow, and his deep tone and cultured British accent enhance the experience. Pronouncing names, Perkins seems as at home in French and German as he is in English. Downing's story is almost entirely centered on Britain.
Pub Date: April 15, 2015
Duration: 13 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781481520515
Publisher: Blackstone 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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