"Entertaining as always !"
Penny Marshall's autobiography was thoroughly entertaining. I enjoy listening to her and am somewhat surprised that her strong NY accent doesn't drive me nuts! In spite of that she just makes me smile and laugh out loud as she pokes fun at herself and opens up about working, partying, and just living through the 60's and 70's and beyond. She comes across as open, honest, and fun-loving and I enjoyed listening to the book from beginning to end :->
"Heartbreaking - well written and narrated"
This is another heartbreaking cult saga. Jenna Miscavige Hill writes a moving narrative from the point of a 3rd generation Scientologist and confirms our fears about what this 'non-profit' organization is really about. With so many famous believers and contributors, it has been easy to be skeptical of my own doubts of the so-called religion based on Ron L. Hubbard's writings. Now my skeptism more clearly lies on the intelligence of those high-powered followers who publicize this cult with their association further empowering the leadership of this organization and the hold they have on those in the lower ranks to provide a lifestyle so clearly monetary and self indulgent in its purpose. With so many accounts of Scientology coming to light, can the Tom Cruises, John Travoltas, Lisa Marie Presleys and other high-powered names associated within its ranks continue to look the other way as young children are being seperated from their families, married couples being seperated and sent to live on seperate continents all the while being brain-washed that there is some overall world good they are achieving in so doing? This account is well written and narrated, easy and compelling to listen to. It's one of those books I'd find myself sitting in the driveway listening to after arriving at my destination. My heart goes out to Ms. Hill and the courage and strength she had to rise above the strict indoctrination she had received from the young age of 6 (which is where the story begins) and probably even before that age. I strongly recommend that you read/hear this book and share it with others.
"Cute story."
This book finally grabbed me (for a bit) after about the mid-way point but was hard to get through. The story was intriguing, but much like the character, Harold Fry, it just seemed to plod along without alot of enthusiasm. I got through it, and it was a charming story in the end, but I can't really recommend it.
"Great narration"
This classic tale was wonderfully narrated by Claire Danes. Unfortunately for me, the storyline just didn't hold up against more modern tales such as "The Hunger Games". Still a great classic done extremely well.
"Awesome!"
Best use of credits in a long time. Hated to finsih this 20+ hour read. Excellent narration to accompany a saga that pulls you in right from the beginning. This is a great story about the lives of 3 innertwinned from young adults over the next several decades. I've found some Bryce Courtenay material slow and tedious but this book kept me wanting more from the very beginning.
"Funny and light"
I thoroughly enjoyed this lighthearted read. It was easy to listen to and made me smile. Not a whole lot to sink your teeth into but the narration was excellent and the characters classic in typical Fannie Flagg style. This is a 'feel good' book - and a good one at that!
"Epic"
This was a great story. The depth of each character was rich and absorbing and was probably the most enjoyable part of the book for me. This said, it was also slow and rambling. I found a few portions of the story compelling but more often it was plodding and tedious. What Steinbeck did so well in his character development was lacking in plot and/or action for the characters. I think the story would make (and I understand was made into) a great 8-10 hour mini-series as opposed to a 25.5 hour book. I have to say I think the narration was EXCELLENT. I don't know if I would have made it through without such great narration. I'm glad to have listened to it because I know it's a classic but as for its entertainment value, it falls a little short.
"Epic Story"
While I enjoyed this epic story about the life of this boy from childhood to young adult, I found it slow and hard to listen to. It lacked the enthusiasm that keeps me wanting to come back to a book. I did however make it through the entire book and think perhaps this might be an instance where the movie might have done a better job telling the story.
"Wow!"
Wow is all I can say after reading this trilogy. What a different take on the human condition. Well written and captivating, I put all other books on hold to get through all three. Can't wait for the movie, but can't imagine it being as compelling as the books!
"A Must Read"
This is a simple, powerful book with principles that will change your life if applied. Beware this is not for passive listening. I immediately went out and bought a hard copy of the workbook for putting these principles at work in my life and bought 4 copies for family members. Andy Andrews has a powerful message for us all - he's also a great speaker - go see him if you get the opportunity. Give yourself a gift of listening to this great story and take the message to heart!