Bobbie Nelson's slow-paced narration doesn't have the appeal of her little brother Willie Nelson's familiar gravelly voice. But both sound so sincere and touched by their reminiscences that the joy of hearing them talk about themselves and each other quickly dominates the listening. They swap narrating chapters, often talking about each other in heartfelt ways that confirm their closeness. Abandoned by their parents when Willie was still in diapers, they prospered as human beings because of supportive family and small-town Texas friends. They also prospered as musicians, encouraged by their community and each other, but they didn't escape heartache, especially Bobbie. Hearing their stories in their own words and voices makes this dual memoir one of the most moving pop music audiobooks available today.
Pub Date: Sept. 15, 2020
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593339664
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An inviting, reflective memoir that feels like Burton is speaking directly to the listener.
Celebrated actor and television host Burton narrates his heartfelt memoir approachably and with eloquence. Giving listeners a transparent look into the struggles, pain, and wisdom that have shaped his life, Burton speaks candidly and humbly. He reflects on a challenging childhood; his shortcomings as a parent; his experiences with racism, drug use, and mental health issues; as well as his deep connection with spirituality and advocacy for the freedom to read and the betterment of humanity. Weaving together experiences from Roots, Star Trek: The Next Generation, and Reading Rainbow, Burton masterfully blends personal storytelling with his thoughts on education and social justice.
An inviting, reflective memoir that feels like Burton is speaking directly to the listener.Pub Date: Nov. 10, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 32 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217015368
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Nov. 9, 2026
Shalhoub’s tone is thoughtful, expressive, and enjoyable right to the last recipe.
In a smooth and natural-sounding voice, actor Shalhoub invites listeners to the table to hear the story of his family’s annual reunions, which have taken place for decades during summers in Door County, Wisconsin. Brought up by Lebanese American parents as one of 10 children in Green Bay, Shalhoub reflects on his father’s survival of wartime hunger and the smells of bratwurst and stuffed grape leaves he grew up with in his mother’s kitchen. His daughter, Josie Adams, helps him fill this memoir with delicious recipes, lifelong remembrances, and the logistics of how dozens of relatives descend on one piece of property each year to enjoy countless card games and zany talent shows.
Shalhoub’s tone is thoughtful, expressive, and enjoyable right to the last recipe.Pub Date: Oct. 27, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 52 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668194560
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Nov. 10, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Jan. 1, 2027
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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