Lori

First off, I simply love books about books - and this is one of the best I've read in a while. The characters are quirky enough to be interesting without being unbelievable or off-putting.The story propelled me towards the end, which I was reluctant to reach - always a good sign, in my opinion. It's not a difficult listen - you can get distracted in the middle of chapter three and still know what's going on. Mostly, it was fun. I even downloaded it for my nine-year-old son - also the sign of a good book.

Unfortunately, I was unable to fully enjoy Kenneth Branagh's performance because of the changes to Conrad's text. It is beautifully read, but I can't use it for class.

As a high school English teacher, using audiobooks sometimes makes my life easier. I use them to "reread" for class and sometimes in class to help students' comprehension. This version changes certain words and phrases to a more politically correct alternative. When one is trying to teach historical context and purpose along with the story, this is disappointing. While those unfamiliar with the text may not notice the substitutions, I found it quite glaring. As an introduction to the novel for students, I'll go back to the other audio version that I have and use that.

Magical and timeless

The multiple story lines that weave together in unexpected and wonderful ways.

Jim Dale is a treat to listen to. I read the book first and loved the story so much that I wanted to listen to it as well. It's very easy to get lost in the narration - smooth and absolutely perfectly suited to the material.

No, actually. I wanted to prolong the experience and going back to it was a "reward" to myself.

This is one of those books that once read you want to just start it over again.

This reminds of what I really liked about the early Prey novels - a concentration on the plot that is both complex and believable. The story works on every level and the subplot with Virgil Flowers adds a little bit of humor as usual. Well done.