New Reviews: Personal Growth

Author and narrator Jami Attenberg delivers this inspirational audiobook about the creative spirit and how to make the sometimes daunting task of writing a reality in a busy world. When faced with a looming deadline, Attenberg decided to create a type of bootcamp for herself and a close friend in which they would write 1,000 words a day for two weeks. Joined by narrators Kamali... Read More

The burnout expert and personal balance coach narrates in a gentle manner that will help all kinds of overly busy people absorb her foundational advice on finding more enjoyment in life. She balances her assertive tone and professional-sounding enunciation with audible respect for her listeners--an inviting combination that promotes openness to learning. Her research summaries... Read More

Listeners familiar with Abdaal's YouTube channel will instantly connect with his familiar voice, accent, and dynamic delivery. Listeners who are being introduced to Abdaal will quickly respond to his speaking style. He offers a new way of thinking that listeners can apply to transform their lives. Drawing from scientific research, diverse case studies, and personal anecdotes,... Read More

After personally struggling with anxiety over uncertainties in her life, business consultant and life coach Allison Carmen offers a short but precise discussion of how to face challenging times with positivity. Exuding a comfortable air and a feminine persona, narrator Kim Niemi delivers the author's mindset on the importance of being present and recognizing that what is... Read More

This timely audiobook is an engaging follow-up to the bestselling author's work on psychological flourishing. Narrator Landon Woodson's heartfelt performance authentically represents the author, a renowned sociologist. Keyes's own storytelling skill creates a smooth transition into the audio format since the scientific information is presented in the context of real-life people... Read More

Chip Conley's narration of his own words of wisdom--drawn from personal and professional experiences, research, and stories of others--challenges listeners to rethink their approach to midlife. Speaking at a good pace in a friendly and encouraging tone, Conley addresses specific realities of aging, prompting listeners to answer questions, rephrase their self-talk, reach out to... Read More

Two gifted narrators turn in performances that make the authors' ideas about paying attention come alive. Their vocal gifts are different and complement each other: Imani Jade Powers performs with a hushed intensity and a philosophical depth that give her interpretations real power. Byron Wagner's strengths are more stylistic; his amazing array of pitch patterns is fun to hear... Read More

Narrator Mike Lenz adeptly guides listeners through the extensive research supporting the concept of emotional intelligence (EI). More than a quarter of a century since the publication of his groundbreaking book, EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, Goleman and fellow psychologist Cary Cherniss bring together years of academic research and the results of organizational initiatives to... Read More

This illuminating audiobook provides clarity and a degree of legitimacy to friendships that are central to a person's life but not romantic or sexual. These relationships can take many forms--from friendships that are unusually close and time consuming to committed relationships that involve cohabiting or even raising children. When people in these close relationships are... Read More

The British science and health journalist puts together a wonderfully organized and helpful guide to understanding and managing our energy. Surveying the research on how our physical, emotional, and mental energy work together, she explains how all kinds of exertion are impacted by rest, diet, sleep, and the thinking or mood we adopt when working. The personal tone of her... Read More

Author, consultant, and TED speaker Karen Eber talks directly to the listener in an absorbing conversational style about how to find, compose, and deliver stories that resonate and influence. Eber's voice, tone, and pace are well matched to her messages. She draws on neuroscience, research, and experience to pinpoint what makes a great story, including how to incorporate but... Read More

The author, Maressa Brown, narrates this astrology guide to infants and toddlers using gender-neutral terms, inclusive words for alternative families, and a focus on early childhood development. Quick yet thorough sections cover how astrology works; traits and parenting tips for babies, based on their charts; and parent-child relationship info based on astrological signs.... Read More

The need for rituals to promote a life of meaning is greater than ever, according to this inspiring audiobook. Harvard Professor Michael Norton's easy-listening performance makes his insights accessible. His confidence sounds professional and never overworked, allowing his knowledge and suggestions to speak for themselves. He says rituals have a broader purpose than habits... Read More

The author is a good choice to present this common-sense advice for people who do knowledge work. Cal Newport's earnest tone and clear speaking voice are perfect vehicles for the creative thinking and humane guidance that pervade his audiobook. He says the idea of measuring productivity by time and effort is a relic of the assembly line. The knowledge work that people do today... Read More

Some listeners could feel bogged down as Christina Delaine narrates the list of duties that ticket takers at a local museum must handle. However, Tara Young's audiobook could inspire other listeners to consider museum careers. Delaine's clear, careful narration will appeal mostly to listeners who are considering career moves and prove helpful to anyone weighing their choices or... Read More

At the start of this audiobook, a couple of quizzes gauge the listener's optimism and other attitudes, and then authors David Cravit and Larry Wolf put forth thoughts aimed at improving the listener's mindset as they grow older. Jarrod Davis's narration is always upbeat. That makes him an encouraging presence as he lays down the basics of successful aging. Power training with... Read More

Communication expert and podcast host Matt Abrahams delivers useful advice on how to think on one's feet with the relaxed polish of a seasoned voice professional. With his pitch range and natural pacing, he draws listeners in with his enthusiasm. His voice and ideas sparkle with energy. The guide is intuitively organized and covers a wide range of speaking situations, such as... Read More

Narrator Lee Osorio soothes listeners with a warm and gentle approach to Buddhist teacher Haemin Sunim's guide to overcoming life's struggles. Using a welcoming and intellectual-sounding tone, Osorio supports Sunim's relatability, understanding of challenges, and belief that difficulties should be seen as opportunities. The author's Buddhist mindset of strength and dignity... Read More

Jamie Kern Lima shares her inspirational story and its important lessons as if she were your best friend telling it like it is. Her foundational message is that reaching your dreams is dependent upon your sense of what you deserve. Lima addresses the importance of assessing your sense of your own worthiness, identifying sources of self-doubt, and actively taking steps to turn... Read More