Most of the speakers in the story of John Brown are fanatics on one side or another of the slavery question, and a very large proportion of them are Virginians. Fortunately for us and for narrator Daniel Oreskes, the text makes clear who is speaking, so this skilled reader has not had to invent distinct voices for all of them. He does, however, treat them all with respect. In a story that includes the confusion and high emotions of Bleeding Kansas and Harper's Ferry, respect is helpful. Brown is such a resonant, iconic figure—so idiosyncratic and so thoroughly American, a terrorist in the name of freedom—that he remains, while possibly a maniac, an important element in the fabric of our culture.
Pub Date: Oct. 25, 2011
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781427213174
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Carol Matthau epitomizes a glamour and lifestyle not associated with the 1990's. Here is a life of privilege, tragedy and worry about what friends would think of her new frock or lover. Matthau possesses a voice and delivery that simply could not be improved on. In her coy whisper, she tells compelling stories involving everyone from William Saroyan (husband #1) and Truman Capote to Carson McCullers, Gloria Vanderbilt, and Walter Matthau (husband #2). This excellent audio presentation will leave you wanting to read the entire book to discover what juicy tidbits were left out.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: The Publishing Mills
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This work is an excellent example of the power of the audiobook medium.
The only time most of us read the U.S. Constitution was in high school civics class. This book offers a unique perspective, and the use of two narrators allows listeners to distinguish between the document itself and the commentary on its continuing relevance. Working through the Constitution in sections, veteran narrator Dion Graham reads the actual text, and author Murray delivers her commentary, including incidents and court cases from as recently as late 2025, to illustrate the relevance to our lives today. Both narrators are easy to listen to, and their respective paces are suited to the complexity of the material.
This work is an excellent example of the power of the audiobook medium.Pub Date: May 5, 2026
Duration: 11 hrs, 43 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668156018
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: June 2, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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