Wild Swan

A Story of Florence Nightingale

By: Patti Callahan

Narrated by: Cynthia Erivo

Length: 1 hr and 54 mins

Publisher's Summary

In this captivating historical novella narrated by Tony Award-winning actress Cynthia Erivo, New York Times best-selling author Patti Callahan Henry celebrates the life of the mother of modern nursing and one of history's greatest heroines: Florence Nightingale. 

Wild Swan introduces listeners to the Lady with the Lamp long before she became a legend. In this poignant story, a young woman has just discovered her divine purpose to become a nurse, and struggles to make that dream a reality. While traveling abroad with her close friend, Selina Bracebridge - another strong woman living an unconventional life - a rare opportunity arises for Florence to practice medicine. Intellectually gifted with an advanced education thanks to her father’s progressive political views, can the daughter of a prominent English family defy Victorian societal expectations to fulfill her destiny? 

Over the course of a few short years, Florence remains brave and determined in the face of all obstacles, pursuing her passion against her family’s wishes. From her parent’s luxurious countryside estate in England to her travels abroad to the German medical institute where she first began her training and fell in love with her work, we follow Florence during these pivotal early years of her extraordinary life.

©2020 Patti Callahan Henry (P)2020 Audible Originals, LLC.

Florence’s journey to being a nurse

This book was wonderfully written by Patti Callahan!! The first words grab you and you become engrossed in the story of Florence desiring to become a nurse and to help others. Her mother wants her to marry as that is what is expected of her. At age 30, her father realizes how important this is to Florence and he gives his blessing for her to go to Germany for training. Very inspirational story and I was very sad for it to end.

Wanting to live a life of meaning?

Will Nightingale, with the heart of a caretaker and the mind of a scholar, sacrifice her wealth and privilege to follow her calling? In a time when nursing was considered a career acceptable for “only prostitutes”, the author allows us an intimate portrait of a young woman who breaks societal barriers in order to do meaningful work. This book reminded me that my story matters in ways I may never know.

tear jerking

it was a beautiful book Not much words that I can say but if I were to say something I would say that this is a book that everyone needs to read to understand when someone has a Passion for something for someone who was led to do something even though the air people that believe that they are doing wrong who is always brought down by others for wanting to do what they want To do

“Audie”

This book gave a clear and concise picture of the life and challenges women of that era faced without sounding like that was the purpose for which it was written. Thus, in doing so the author revealed the true nature and servant heart that drove Florence Nightingale to accomplish the meaningful pursuit to obey God’s call.

Fascinating

I learned things about Florence that never occurred to me. As a healthcare worker I appreciate this story.

Brilliant and Inspiring!

What an incredibly brilliant Audible Original! Patti Callahan is a masterful story teller that transports you to Florence Nightingales trials and tribulations of wanting more than just being as society expected of her! I was drawn in from the first words, and honestly wanted more when it was over! One of the best originals I have ever listened to!

unexpectedly wonderful listen

Was not expecting to get drawn in so quickly or feel so inspired about this short read. A good read for anyone!

Cynthia Erivo in any medium is a beautiful thing

Lovely short glimpse into the real life of a legend. Would have preferred that Cynthia sang is rather than acted, but quite fine all the same.

Wonderful!

This is one of those soul happy books, makes you appreciate everything we are capable of in life!

left me wanting more

I have been a nurse for 42 yrs and visited the NIghtingale school in London back in the 70's. I loved this very short introduction to Florence but I wanted MORE!! Wish it would have been more in depth!