THE FIRST BILLION IS THE HARDEST Reflections on a Life of Comebacks and America's Energy Future

Listeners can expect a mixture of folksy aphorisms, Pickens's grandmother's advice, and abundant doses of self-aggrandizement. Here and there the author shares pearls of business wisdom he calls "Boonisms." There are even some lessons for CEOs, for those who need them. Narrator Arthur Morey hardly sounds like the rural Texas tycoon whose story he tells. Rather, his sandy voice sticks to the no-frills approach some listeners prefer. Pickens's simple vocabulary and writing style pose no challenge to Morey or the listener. Morey modulates his speaking just a little, never daring to try for a characterization or accent. Such a lackluster memoir could have benefited from a more colorful narration. As for getting rich after hearing it, good luck. J.A.H. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]