Poland

By: James A. Michener

Narrated by: Larry McKeever

Length: 30 hrs and 57 mins

Publisher's Summary

In this sweeping novel, James A. Michener chronicles eight tumultuous centuries as three Polish families live out their destinies. The Counts Lubonski, the petty nobles Bukowksi, and the peasants Buk are at times fiercely united, at others tragically divided. With an inspiring tradition of resistance to brutal invaders, from the barbarians to the Nazis, and a heritage of pride that burns through eras of romantic passion and courageous solidarity, their common story reaches a breathtaking culmination in the historic showdown between the ruthless Communists and rebellious farmers of the modern age. Like the heroic land that is its subject, Poland teems with vivid events, unforgettable characters, and the unfolding drama of an entire nation.

©1983 James A. Michener (P)2015 Random House Audio

Critic Reviews

"Engrossing.... A page-turner in the grand Michener tradition." ( The Washington Post)

"A Michener epic is far more than a bedtime reader, it's an experience. Poland is a monumental effort, a magnificent guide to a better understanding of the country's tribulations." ( Chicago Tribune)

Horrible narration

I really enjoy Michener, but this narration is horrible. He is practically monotone and almost sounds like a computer voice. I couldn't finish it.

8 of 8 people found this review helpful

Paradox

I was very glad I listened to the book, but I found it incredibly tedious. I learned more than I expected, but longer for an emotional connection.

Ultimately I couldn't put it down but listened to it on double time. And now I want to go to Poland by way of Vienna.

6 of 6 people found this review helpful

In Depth and Engaging

Would you listen to Poland again? Why?

Possibly not, but only because it's really long and I have a lot of books in my queue. I might if I take another trip to Poland, just to brush up.

Which scene was your favorite?

The scene in which two concentration camp survivors are discussing their feelings of guilt over things they did to survive, as well as their discussion of Holocaust deniers, was very powerful.

Any additional comments?

This book is long but very engaging. Though there were portions that were a little slow, I routinely found myself laughing out loud while listening. Michener is a masterful storyteller on a very broad scale, and McKeever has a very pleasing voice (and does great with all the difficult Polish pronunciations!). A great book overall, especially for someone who wants to get at least a taste of Polish history and culture.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Audible version mechanical; Characters dull

I originally read this book back in the 90's. It's a magnificent read and I couldn't wait to hear the audible version after all this time. However, the performance is lacking; too mechanical and dull. The characters have no life and the store overall is presented at a single tone, Disappointed in the performance not in the store or in Michener.

5 of 6 people found this review helpful

Impactful

The most profoundly moving book I have read in a long time. It has gained me so much more understanding of the Polish people and their culture. A pity the narrator didn't check who to pronounce Polish words like Wrocław.

2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Another great masterpiece...

Once again the author brings you into another place, another time and another well researched novel.
With that said it did take me a few extra chapters to fully get involved with the characters and the back ground, but don't give up it's a fantastic novel.
Loved this book and despite others who criticize the narration I loved it. Mitchners books are mainly historical with characters immersed through out that tell the story and facts of what the book is about.
if you have trouble with the narration dial the speed up a notch.

4 of 5 people found this review helpful

One of the best historical fiction booms

This is one of Michener's finest works. It brings to life the soul of Poland and her people as no history book can. Highly recommended.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Robot voice.

Would you try another book from James A. Michener and/or Larry McKeever?

Perhaps. The remainder of this comment is filler to meet the minimum words requirement.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Not sure, not finished with audio book.

What didn’t you like about Larry McKeever’s performance?

He sounds like a Robot. And it sounds like he used computer electronic audio enhancement on his voice. Big mistake.

What character would you cut from Poland?

Not sure, not finished with audio book.

Any additional comments?

Audio books should not sound like computers or computer enhanced human voices. They should be created by real humans with natural sounding voice.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Poland Has Important History to Share

So much I did not know. Poland Has endured so much injustice. While hard to hear sad events, important to realize what has happened.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Outstanding Historical Fiction

A great storyteller, Michener takes you through almost a thousand years of Polish History via the families living along the Vistula river.

Highly recommend!!

1 of 1 people found this review helpful