John Steinbeck is among America's premier social realist authors. His books are classics. Yet many people do not know him beyond his literary canon. This audiobook seeks to remedy that. It explores the author's often troubled life as well as his creative genius. David Colacci offers an able and consistent narration. His tone, while not conversational, is easy on the ears and keeps the narrative flowing nicely. His pauses are strategic, allowing listeners to take in important points before going on. He also varies his tone to fit the material. The book will break little new ground for listeners well acquainted with Steinbeck's life, but for the rest of us, listening will prove enlightening.
Pub Date: Nov. 10, 2020
Duration: 15 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781705265543
Publisher: Tantor Media
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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