TEN YEARS LATER Six People Who Faced Adversity and Transformed Their Lives

In this near perfect production, "Today" show cohost Hoda Kotb speaks with natural clarity and polish. The writing is also excellent; she and her writing partner make the drama in these stories flow with exactly the right amount of suspense and well-placed color. Throughout the audio, Kotb shares these stories with her "breaking news" voice, which fits the pathos in these six lives but may sound a bit relentless to some listeners. Her message, delivered effectively nonetheless, is that even when faced with obstacles and tragedies, people have the resilience to work toward a brighter, happier future. Some of the stories are graphic and disturbing, but this helps make the audio a gripping and inspiring experience. T.W. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2013]