Callings

The Purpose and Passion of Work (A StoryCorps Book)

By: David Isay

Narrated by: David Isay

In Callings, StoryCorps founder Dave Isay presents unforgettable stories from people doing what they love. Some are paid well for their work, others not at all; some found their paths at very young ages, others later in life; many overcame great odds or upturned their lives in order to pursue what matters to them. Many of these stories have never been published or broadcast by StoryCorps until now.

We meet a man from the barrios of Texas whose harrowing experiences in a family of migrant farmers inspired him to become a public defender. We meet a longtime waitress who takes pride in making regulars and newcomers alike feel at home in her Nashville diner. We meet a young man on the South Side of Chicago who became a teacher in order to help at-risk teenagers like the ones who killed his father get on the right track. We meet a woman from Little Rock who helps former inmates gain the skills and confidence they need to rejoin the workforce. Together they demonstrate how work can be about much more than just making a living, that chasing dreams and finding inspiration in unexpected places can transform a vocation into a calling. Their shared senses of passion, honor, and commitment brings deeper meaning and satisfaction to every aspect of their lives.

An essential contribution to the beloved StoryCorps collection, Callings is an inspiring tribute to rewarding work and the American pursuit of happiness.

©2016 216 StoryCorps, Inc. (P)2016 216 StoryCorps, Inc.

story is too short. I wanted my $$ worth. stories

stories were interesting but can't help but wonder if I can hear the same stories on storycore app??

so good, worthy of gifting

whenever anyone asks me to recommended an audio book I put this one at the top of the list.

Real Heroes

The true heroes, and "biggest" people aren't the ones in the mainstream headlines. Some of them are in the stories in this book. In some ways they speak for Everyman. These stories are moving, touching, heartfelt and inspiring. The world would be a better place if more, especially those in positions of nominal leadership, heard these.

High Expectations

I found the topic provocative and promising. The author went pretty far afield from his topic. I was disappointed.

Great Stories but ended weird

Great stories but ended oddly. I was going to hear more and for the end to have a better wrap up but it just ended.

Beautiful

I really truly loved the message and enjoyed this very much
I highly recommend for a quick "listen"

Quick listen

What did you love best about Callings?

Story of the lox cutter.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Accountant who took pride in slicing salmon.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No each story stands on it's own.

Wonderful stories

I love hearing stories from different perspectives. Thanks. I have shared these stories with other family members.

very enjoyable stories from Story Corps

Any additional comments?

This is a lovely compilation of Story Corps stories, about people's work. I enjoyed the whole book, but couldn't bring myself to listen to the final section, all of which centered on people who work in and around death chambers in states that have the death penalty.

Deceived

I thought I was purchasing an audio version of the book. It is not. Very unhappy with this purchase.