Tavia Gilbert demonstrates the value of a skilled professional as she narrates what might easily have been a wandering and disconnected work. In a series of brief chapters, NEW YORK TIMES book critic Michiko Kakutani picks her 100+ favorite books "to read and reread," a solid and eclectic list with a number of surprises. The listings are alphabetical by author, and the sequences often wildly mismatched. But Gilbert's expert timing and vocal shading bring purpose and direction, highlighting the author's sharp insights and abiding enthusiasm for good books of every kind. Kakutani effectively sums up each book's unique character and appeal, and listeners will be sure to add a half dozen or more fresh titles to their listening lists before they've finished.
Pub Date: Oct. 20, 2020
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593394960
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Inspiring collections of Angelou reading her poetry. These selections showcase Angelou's smooth, lyrical voice and her warm vitality. Her innate rhythm celebrates her verse and offers the poems to listeners as they should be remembered. Occasionally Angelou comments between the selections, and occasionally she interjects a resonant laugh.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: N/A
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A well-delivered story of self-discovery and family connection.
Chef and TV host King narrates her own memoir, creating an intimate experience for the listener as she traces her path from childhood cooking experiences to a career in demanding professional kitchens. With a strong, confident, humor-filled tone, King recounts growing up shaped by the cultural expectations of a Chinese American family, pursuing culinary training, entering the restaurant world, and finding freedom in the queer community and her television work. Her warm, conversational delivery shifts naturally between childhood memories, professional experiences, and personal reflection. Her pacing slows during moments of vulnerability and accelerates around career challenges and turning points.
A well-delivered story of self-discovery and family connection.Pub Date: Oct. 6, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 24 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593908068
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Oct. 5, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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