IN OUR PRIME The Invention of Middle Age

Patricia Cohen's examination of middle age starts with ruminations on what it means in American culture. Pam Ward narrates with tones of playfulness and a bit of cynicism. As the book sharpens its focus on the shifting attitudes and concerns of middle-aged Americans, Ward's reading becomes more serious—sometimes angry. Her voice reflects Cohen's irritation with employers and marketers who value the younger generation. Cohen is thorough and interesting as she tracks social attitudes from the 1800s into the 21st century. These historical insights are the most interesting part of the book, even if they could be unsettling to middle-aged listeners. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2012]