The Rockefellers

When I started reading the book, I was thrilled with the fact that I am reading about Mr. Rockefeller, the person who created Standard Oil. Little did I know that the book deals more with the lives of the other members of the Rockefeller family. The lives of John D Rockefeller (Senior as well as the Junior) is only around 40% of the entire book. It deals with the four generations of Rockfellers. I found the book a bit lengthy and at times boring as it went too much of detailing. Read it, keeping in mind that you are not only reading about the person who created Standard Oil, but about three generations on how the 'Oil Money' impacted their lives.

This book was disappointing on a couple of levels. 1) the target was too broad and therefore the level of detail insufficient, 2) the presentation was the worst I have ever heard. Chronic editing problems where the performer spoke softly while reading the majority and then would get this blaring voice in voice-overs where he didn't. Further, the reading in my mind wasn't fully appropriate as he switched to his..."lesser" voice when reading quotes from certain people, certainly several of the Rockefellers, but also all women. The voice that is put on is whiny and unpleasant, which for the first many hours you think is his projection of an opinion of Jr., but later learn it's an artifact of the presentation which changes the emotional reaction to certain characters in an unfortunate way.

Would not recommend.

The first and second chapters, covering the rise of John D. Rockefeller and "Junior" were very well done. The sections covering the third and fourth generation were much more diluted. The people were far less interesting and yet they were given as much attention as the truly great John D and Junior.

Yes, although I can't explain "how." I could always tell when and which character was talking.

Hard to say whether or not a follow-up is necessary. At the time the book was written, the third generation was still mid-stream, and the whiny fourth generation were mid-stream in their self-absorption. If they accomplished anything worthwhile it might be worth hearing.

Audible needs to have "The Tycoons" available, as well as something along the lines of "The Men Who Built America."

I thought it was good - lots of history - but by the 4th generation - well who are they and what are they doing - wasn't that interested - the first Guy and then the ones after for 2nd and 3rd generation up to lots! Too long - 32 hours or more - too much.

I also did Carnegie - that's a lot of listening too! Was good though but too long.