This genre-defying gem of an audiobook is an exhilarating reminder of the power of literature to make us think, feel, and strive. With THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN, BABBITT, and THE HEART IS A LONELY HUNTER as her touchstones, Nafisi (who wrote READING LOLITA IN TEHRAN) argues the centrality of literature to democracy and decries its diminution in educational policy and public thought. Nafisi’s rich, undulating voice introduces her own premise. Narrator Mozhan Marno’s clarion voice carries that message to its conclusion. Literature lovers and librarians will naturally be drawn to Nafisi’s message, but, as she herself notes, those who would benefit most are exactly those least likely to listen. Forgo your earbuds and see whom you can evangelize by playing this inspiring audiobook out loud.
Pub Date: Oct. 21, 2014
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780698179882
Publisher: Penguin 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
Brick delivers this unforgettable narrative with grace and skill for full impact.
Scott Brick is a frequent narrator of historian Philbrick’s audiobooks, and he’s a perfect match for the author’s straightforward but highly expressive narrative voice. The discovery of gold in the California Sierras in 1848 triggered one of the most dramatic episodes in American history, a grand panorama of greed, obsession, and astonishing twists of fortune. Gold fever fueled progress in sea travel, railroad building, and mechanics and, not incidentally, accelerated the booming nation’s slide toward civil war. Philbrick is, as always, a rewarding and deeply satisfying storyteller, and his history of the California Gold Rush offers a cast of memorable characters along with a troubling record of racism and vigilantism.
Brick delivers this unforgettable narrative with grace and skill for full impact.Pub Date: Oct. 6, 2026
Duration: 13 hrs, 21 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217356218
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Oct. 5, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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