The Chaperone

By: Laura Moriarty

Narrated by: Elizabeth McGovern

Length: 13 hrs and 14 mins

Publisher's summary

The Chaperone is a captivating novel about the woman who chaperoned an irreverent Louise Brooks to New York City in 1922, and the summer that would change them both.

Only a few years before becoming a famous actress and an icon for her generation, a 15-year-old Louise Brooks leaves Wichita to make it big in New York. Much to her annoyance, she is accompanied by a thirty-six-year-old chaperone who is neither mother nor friend. Cora Carlisle is a complicated but traditional woman with her own reasons for making the trip. She has no idea what she’s in for: Young Louise, already stunningly beautiful and sporting her famous blunt bangs and black bob, is known for her arrogance and her lack of respect for convention. Ultimately, the five weeks they spend together will change their lives forever.

For Cora, New York holds the promise of discovery that might prove an answer to the question at the center of her being, and even as she does her best to watch over Louise in a strange and bustling city, she embarks on her own mission. And while what she finds isn’t what she anticipated, it liberates her in a way she could not have imagined. Over the course of the summer, Cora’s eyes are opened to the promise of the 20th century and a new understanding of the possibilities for being fully alive.

©2012 Laura Moriarty (P)2012 Penguin Audio

Great Story, Great Listen!

Would you listen to The Chaperone again? Why?

Yes, I would listen to this audio book again! I absolutely loved listening to Elizabeth McGovern. She played the characters well without sounding like she was acting or trying to pull something off. She was clear and well spoken, adding her own touches to the cadence of words and feelings.

The story is fantastic. I loved the characters. There was nothing glorified, no one personality that overshadowed one over another. There was of course a main character but there were supporting characters that presented and gave importance to the story line. These too had strong personalities and/or important roles but really they all came together so seemlessly. I loved that I had a chance to not only get a glimpse into their lives but feel as though I had actually sat down and had coffee together. I loved being a part of their life for this short time and was sorry to have to say goodbye to them as the book came to a close.

This is the first book I've listened to by Laura Moriarty and I see that she does indeed have more books I will look forward to reading and/or listen to. I haven't yet checked but I will see if Elizabeth McGovern has more novels she has narrated. She is perfect and has a perfect voice for narration.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Chaperone?

The decision Cora makes before she leaves to go back to Wichita.

Have you listened to any of Elizabeth McGovern’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

This is the first performance by Elizabeth McGovern that I have had the pleasure of listening to. She was fantastic! There are some narrators that are easily forgotten and some that are worth remembering. She is worth remembering.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

From Unwrapped Candy to Unwrapped Hearts

Lovely listen, well narrated

Would you listen to The Chaperone again? Why?

I don't have time to listen a second time to any audiobook, but certainly enjoyed this.

What other book might you compare The Chaperone to and why?

Rules of Civility, in tone, the quality of the writing, and historical frame.

What about Elizabeth McGovern’s performance did you like?

She found a sympathetic and recognizable voice for each character. Fit the story perfectly.

Who was the most memorable character of The Chaperone and why?

Cora and Louise, equally. The contrast between the two created a balanced view of a time in history incomprehensible to many of Cora's generation. Cora's opening awareness was handled well. The damage to Louise from the excess equally so.

Any additional comments?

I wish more books like this would come my way.

I loved this story and Ms. Mcgovern.

Would you listen to The Chaperone again? Why?

I thought the story was wonderful and it was beautifully performed.

What about Elizabeth McGovern’s performance did you like?

Her voice, of course, and her performance.

what a surprise.. in a good way

I was drawn to this book and had it in my wish list for over 6 months because it wasn't the style of book I normally enjoy. I finally took it on and could not stop listing. It was excellent in so many ways. The author did quite a bit of research to pull the book off so flawlessly. The hidden side of our lives so well told, especially in the paradox of the time period. We are always, just human and the rules of society no matter what time period are just illusions.

Such a wonderful book on relationships

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I have recommended this book to friends and acquaintances. It is such a wonderful read (listen). This was not only an entertaining story it gave a great picture of all kinds of relationships. It was well written, extremely well performed and will be my choice to lead at our book club gathering. C. from Virginia

Love this book!

Where does The Chaperone rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

Best one I've read yet!

Who was your favorite character and why?

An interesting point of view for the time periods. Louise Brooks was before her time.

What about Elizabeth McGovern’s performance did you like?

Excitent. Couldn't stop listening.

Loved It

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Absolutely. It was engaging and personal, painting a very clear picture.

Which scene was your favorite?

There were lots. The train rides (both for Cora as a child & then again as an adult to escort Louis to NY), learning to play "Graces", grown-up Louis chatting with Cora who sits on the bedroom floor, seeing the Jazz musical on Broadway, Cora & her beau buying the radio for the orphans...I could go on.

Any additional comments?

I loved it so much, I've listened to it twice. I'll probably listen to it a third time.

Smiling to myself so often....

If you could sum up The Chaperone in three words, what would they be?

Classic, classy, memorable.

What did you like best about this story?

Elizabeth McGovern is the perfect narrator for this, because she could play either Louise or Cora in the fim version. Truly enjoyed this from start to finish.

Which scene was your favorite?

Cora trying to flirt her way into the records at the home was a comedy of errors! Loved it - would love to see it on the stage!

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Let me work on that a little....

McGovern is a wonderful reader.

The Chaperone is a very listenable personal history of a family living with...well...life. Elizabeth McGovern is a wonderful, expressive reader. Very much an actress and not just a narrator. I will seek out other books she has read.

good story

Good story line taking the reader through early 1900 to 1970's. really enjoyed this book!