Author Toni Bentley delivers the opening chapters of this evocative ode to her career as a dancer for the legendary choreographer George Balanchine of the New York City Ballet. The main narrative, performed by Leslie Howard, is a minute-by-minute, movement-by-movement deconstruction of Balanchine's first original American ballet, SERENADE. Bentley's thorough research and insider perspective provide fascinating details on topics that range from the history of ballet to Balanchine's life story, diverse aspects of SERENADE's origins and evolution, and Bentley's years as a devoted Balanchine ballerina. Howard's narration serves this memoir well. With her bright, engaging tone and nuanced inflections, she seems perfectly chosen to voice this intimate portrait of a ballet, the creative genius behind it, and the impact of both on the author's life.
Pub Date: April 12, 2022
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593558362
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The late Reiner recounts the bizarre origin of the mock rock band Spinal Tap and traces its evolution through the past 40 years. With band members Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer, Reiner talks tongue-in-cheek about the world's most infamous fake band. They narrate in and out of character about the craziness of the movie project, which was pitched with no script or budget. The guest list of music celebrities in the audiobook seems endless. McKean, Shearer, and Guest are actors and writers who have appeared in countless movies and television shows, both serious and comedic. Spinal Tap is their way of letting off steam with inside jokes about the rock industry that surprisingly hit very close to home. Hilarious--a must for Spinal Tap fans.
Pub Date: Nov. 25, 2025
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668123904
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Award-winning performer Cynthia Erivo narrates her own memoir in which she focuses on what it means to fully embrace yourself, even if others do not. Today, Erivo is beloved for her role as Elphaba in the film adaptation of the musical WICKED, but as a child she was frequently told she asked too many questions and to stop being "too much." Performing her story herself, Erivo takes back her power. As she explores her own life, she takes time to ask listeners about their own experiences. With her performance skills and melodic voice, Erivo captures listeners' attention and leaves them feeling inspired to be themselves.
Pub Date: Nov. 18, 2025
Duration: 3 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250435156
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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