Home

By: Witold Rybczynski

Narrated by: Wanda McCaddon

Length: 7 hrs and 34 mins

Publisher's summary

In this illuminating book, Witold Rybczynski walks us through five centuries of homes both great and small, from the smoke-filled manor halls of the Middle Ages to the Ralph Lauren–designed environments of today, on a house tour like no other: one that delightfully explicates the very idea of “home.” You’ll see how social and cultural changes influenced styles of decoration and furnishing, learn the connection between wall-hung religious tapestries and wall-to-wall carpeting, discover how some of our most welcome luxuries were born of architectural necessity, and much more.

©1986 Witold Rybczynski (P)2000 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Interesting, but yawn-inspiring at times

Would you listen to Home again? Why?

No. It was interesting, but it bogged down at times.

Would you be willing to try another book from Witold Rybczynski? Why or why not?

Maybe. It would depend on the subject.

Any additional comments?

This was a good overall history of the home, but failed to keep my interest. I found my attention wandering frequently while listening.

I really enjoyed it.

I was looking for something like Bill Bryson's home because i enjoyed it so much. I have probably listened to that book 5X just because once i listened to if fully through it was a great book to fall asleep to. No music in between chapters.
This book was not as interesting a Bill Bryson's book but it is the closest thing i have found and i thought it has some really interesting bits. I agree it is slow in parts but still overall enjoyable.

Insightful, rewarding, and pleasurable.

I have started reading this book several times on several vacations. But vacations ended, and I shelved the book each time--until now. And I am so glad I finally finished because I loved it! Rybczynski met my expectations, and the Audible narrator--Wanda MacCaddon--exceeded them. The writing style is clear and interesting, and the author's commentaries and conclusions are insightful and rewarding. And McCaddon is a "hoot" to listen to.

So what promoted my newfound commitment toward completion? Another planned vacation and another opportunity to read. But this time, I did not wait for my vacation to begin. I started "early" and finished before leaving. My failure to complete the book had nothing to do with the quality of the book itself. In fact, what I had read, I liked. Rather, I oddly enjoyed flirting with Witold and his cozy book on the history of "home" over the years. But during this time, I also learned of--and had accumulated--other Rybcynski titles that interested me; but how could I begin those when I hadn't finished the first one? But now, having read--and finished "Home"--I am ready for more Rybczynski. Next, please.

From an interior design student...

Currently, I am an interior design student and this book was a fortunate discovery. It’s part history/part comparative study on the idea of a comfortable home and how that concept has evolved. I decided to purchase the book for easy reference, however I will be listening to this book again and again. Also, author is quite entertaining and easy to listen to.
Enjoy! =)

Informative, Concise, and Intimate.

The book was recommended reading to the understanding of the historical house. I live in a Victorian house that I am restoring and "improving." This book is an indispensable tool toward understanding your home.

As a seeker of the past, the author's conclusions are thought-provoking, leaving me wanting more.

On to another book about homes. Greatfull for a free book.

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