Biography & Memoir Audiobooks

When Caesar Was King: How Sid Caesar Reinvented American Comedy

"From longtime New York Times and Vanity Fair writer David Margolick comes the first definitive biography of Sid Caesar: founding father of television comedy and icon to generations of Americans. By the spring of 1954, Sid Caesar was the most influential, highly paid, and enigmatic comedian in America. Every week, twenty million people tuned their TVs to his NBC extravaganza, Your Show of Shows, and witnessed his versatility and virtuosity in sketches and film spoofs, pantomime and soliloquy. Onstage, Caesar could play any character and make it funny: a befuddled game-show contestant, a pretentious expert, a beleaguered husband (opposite his redoubtable co-star Imogene Coca), even a gumball machine and a bottle of seltzer. To his mostly urban audience, Caesar's comedy was an era-defining leap forward from the days of vaudeville, launching a new comedic style that was multilayered, language-drunk, full of character, and uproarious. To his rivals, Caesar was the man to beat. To his fellow American Jews, his show's success meant something more: It was a post-Holocaust symbol of security and a source of pride. But behind all that Caesar represented was the real Sid. Introverted and volatile, ill at ease in his own skin, he could terrorize his collaborators but reserved his harshest critiques for himself. Soon enough, he would be off the air. Beset by exhaustion, addiction, a fickle viewership, and his own impossible standards, TV's first true star was also its first fall from grace. But in his wake he left the disciples he personally nurtured-including Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, and Neil Simon-and an indelible impact on what still makes us laugh. In When Caesar Was King, veteran journalist David Margolick conjures this complex man as never before. Deeply researched, brimming with love for Caesar and the culture from which he sprang, and reanimating a New York City that has all but vanished, this rollicking and poignant book traces the rise and fall of a legend."

David Margolick (Author), TBD (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Women

"Brought to you by Penguin. What are the forces that shape us? In The Women, Hilton Als explores—with breath taking originality—the role of sexual and racial identity in marginalized lives. With a blend of fact and fiction, Als brings to vivid life a number of extraordinary characters, including: his mother, a singular woman whose West Indian heritage and determination inspired her son to write; Malcolm X's mother, whose mixed-race background and eventual descent into madness contributed to her son's burgeoning misogyny and fear; brilliant, Harvard-educated Dorothy Dean, who deeply empathized with white gay men; and Owen Dodson, teacher and poet, who played an important role in the author's development as a gay man, and thinker. Combining memoir, cultural history, social theory and storytelling, The Women is a profoundly innovative work which has inspired a generation of writers. Here, Als submits both racial and sexual stereotypes to scrutiny, showing ‘no mercy but every tenderness’. The results are exhilarating. The Women is that rarest of books: a memorable work of self-investigation that creates a form of all its own. © Hilton Als 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025"

Hilton Als (Author), TBD (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Architect of Espionage: The Man Who Built Israel's Mossad into the World's Boldest Intelligence

"From a New York Times bestselling author and expert on Middle Eastern conflict comes a riveting biography of Meir Dagan, the legendary Mossad director who transformed Israel's intelligence service into a global powerhouse of espionage and counterterrorism. In The Architect of Espionage, Samuel M. Katz masterfully chronicles the life of Meir Dagan, a visionary covert warfare veteran who revolutionized the art of intelligence and espionage. Born in the shadows of the Holocaust, his life personified the modern history of the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Dagan's journey embodies decisive action, innovative thought, and bold leadership under fire. His tenure as the head of the Mossad marked a transformative era in Israel's history, reshaping the agency into a formidable global force. Dagan's story is one of daring strategy and relentless ingenuity. He spent thirty-two years in uniform, and under his eight-year leadership, Mossad orchestrated a series of high-stakes missions, including targeted assassinations, clandestine attempts to stop Iran from becoming a nuclear power, and the covert expansion of Israel's strategic collaborations with members of the global intelligence fraternity, notably with the CIA. These operations not only bolstered Israel's security but also altered the geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East. Drawing on unprecedented access to Dagan's closest confidants, comrades in arms, and contemporaries in the international intelligence community, Katz brings to life the portrait of a spymaster whose influence extended far beyond Israel's borders, shaping intelligence relationships across the Middle East and worldwide. Katz's expertise in Middle Eastern conflicts and counterterrorism shines through in this meticulously researched narrative that delves into the intricate details of Dagan's strategies. The Architect of Espionage is more than a biography—it is the history of the Jewish state told through the life of one of its most incredible warriors, spy chiefs, and, ultimately, statesmen. The Architect of Espionage is an immersive journey into the shadowy world of intelligence, where decisions carry life-or-death stakes and outcomes are steeped in secrecy. For anyone captivated by espionage thrillers or historical biographies, this is an essential and timely read, providing an insightful glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential spymasters of our era."

Samuel M. Katz (Author), Adam Grupper (Narrator)

Audiobook

Zen in the Art of Writing: Releasing the Creative Genius Within You

"Discover the inimitable genius of Ray Bradbury as he explores the art of writing, the power of creativity, and the timeless appeal of storytelling in this collection of essays that are part masterclass, part memoir, featuring a new introduction by Dan Chaon. In Zen in the Art of Writing, Ray Bradbury's love for his craft shines. With signature wisdom, wit, and verve, Bradbury delves into his prolific writing career, exploring the creation of countless stories, novels, plays, movies, and more that have stood the test of time. Written over a thirty-year period, these inspirational essays insist that there is a "deep well of explosive self-revelation" in all of us waiting to be released through the process of writing. Bradbury's essays illuminate the passion and intellect of one of the most inventive and prolific artists of the 20th century. He reveals how writers can find their own unique path to developing their voice and style. Zen celebrates the art of writing that will delight, impassion, and inspire, but most of all, it celebrates life."

Ray Bradbury (Author), Aden Hakimi (Narrator)

Audiobook

Golden Years: What I've Learned from Love, Loss, and Reality TV

"From beloved inaugural Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner, an uplifting memoir about a fresh start after heartbreak and a peek behind the reality TV curtain. When his high school sweetheart and wife of over forty years passed away unexpectedly, Gerry Turner's life was indelibly changed. In that moment, his and Toni's shared vision of living out their retirement together was shattered. In the wake of this profound loss, Gerry had to move forward-for himself, for his daughters, and for Toni. After years of grieving and uneven healing, Gerry finally felt ready to find the next woman he couldn't live without-to help him take on new adventures and live out his golden years the way Toni would have wanted him to. When he applied to star in ABC's The Golden Bachelor, he had no idea just how much his life was about to change. In Golden Years, Gerry chronicles his grief after Toni's death, his unbelievable experiences on The Golden Bachelor, and the life-altering lessons he took away from both. Rich with behind-the-scenes insights into filming the show and hard-won rules he lived by when putting himself back into the dating world, Golden Years tells Gerry Turner's complete story for the first time. "

Gerry Turner (Author), Gerry Turner (Narrator)

Audiobook

A Revolution of Common Sense: How Donald Trump Stormed Washington and Fought for Western Civilizatio

"''Scott Jennings is a Patriot from the Great State of Kentucky... A Revolution of Common Sense was directly inspired by my Inaugural Address and the many Common Sense actions we have taken in our effort to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.... Scott totally gets it and, unlike the many Fake News books that are being written about my Administration, Scott's book will focus on the TRUTH about Team Trump and our Agenda.'' —President Donald J. Trump An unprecedented inside look at how President Donald Trump has re-taken Washington by storm in his historic second term, written with the participation of the President and his inner circle. From the Oval Office to Air Force One, and from his unique perch as the most popular conservative commentator at CNN, Jennings provides a revelatory look at the dramatic return of Donald Trump to the White House and his efforts to restore common sense to American government and save Western Civilization in the process."

Scott Jennings (Author), Scott Jennings (Narrator)

Audiobook

Gangs

"Taking into account their history, this book explores the Black gangs of London. It addresses the important but often overlooked questions, on how, why and when they emerged - all while touching on cultural and societal influences on Black Gangs. From the Windrush generation to the ongoing stabbing epidemic, the book examines the social issues that have contributed to the rise of violence across the streets of London. Beyond looking at Black Gangs across London, this book explores the stereotypes and misconceptions facing black men today, in an effort to challenge those who create such stereotypes. Through anecdotes and interviews, this book aims to give the younger generation a complete picture of black gangs in London, their origins and seeks to inspire positive change."

London Street Legends (Author), Theo Solomon (Narrator)

Audiobook

Political Girl: Life and Fate in Russia

"Brought to you by Penguin. What do you do when your country becomes a repressive authoritarian state? 2014: Russia prepares to host the Winter Olympics. Russia invades Crimea. Putin is re-elected president. Several political prisoners are amnestied and released early from prison. Maria Alyokhina is among them. She had spent two years in a penal colony after performing the punk prayer ‘Virgin Mary, Banish Putin’ with her friends in the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. They had warned the rest of the world of the dangers of authoritarianism, but the Russia she finds when she gets out of prison is even more oppressive. What can you do, she asks, when your country has been seized by all-powerful men who are waging war against another country and their own citizens? As Maria recounts her brave and colourful protests, we are drawn straight into the world of grassroots opposition and witness the absurd measures the Russian state takes to contain protest. And when the full-scale war against Ukraine starts and the Russian opposition is repeatedly silenced, Maria and her activist friends continue to resist despite the high stakes. They fight increasingly absurd cycles of detention and house arrest: sometimes with the smallest acts such as going for a walk or having a rainbow ice cream, until, faced with a new prison sentence, she escapes Russia in May 2022 dressed as a food delivery courier. Her story, like her life, is fiercely courageous, darkly funny and highly inspiring to anyone who wants to stand up for the truth. © Maria Alyokhina 2025 (P) Penguin Audio 2025"

Maria Alyokhina (Author), TBD (Narrator)

Audiobook

J.R.R. Tolkien: The Father of Modern Fantasy

"Explore the extraordinary life of J.R.R. Tolkien, the legendary creator of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, in this captivating literary biography that celebrates the father of modern fantasy and his profound influence on fantasy literature and mythological storytelling. This captivating volume goes beyond the epic tales of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings to explore J.R.R. Tolkien's incredible life and the experiences that shaped his legendary works. From his early days as a linguist to his passion for mythology and languages, this book provides fascinating insights into Tolkien's extraordinary mind. This beautifully curated book is both an inspiring biography and a celebration of literary brilliance. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Tolkien or just beginning your literary adventure, Pocket Portraits: J.R.R. Tolkien will leave you fascinated, inspired, and longing for more."

Don Marshall (Author), Don Marshall (Narrator)

Audiobook

Undefeated

"Aged 12, Sam Walker Roberts was groomed online by a teacher who later sexually assaulted and raped her. Weeks later, she fell into the clutches of a paedophile ring and was raped repeatedly by a gang, only one of whom faced justice. Devastated at the failures in the judicial system, Sam launched: ‘You have not defeated me’, a campaign which demanded more support and understanding for grooming victims. In 2012, Sam worked with Keith Vaz on a government inquiry into localised grooming. In 2014, she returned to the street where she was gang-raped and interviewed local residents, gathering evidence that other children had been exploited at the same address. Working with MP’s, she set up fake profiles online, showing how easily children are targeted. She snared two paedophiles who were later jailed. In 2019, Sam wrote an open letter: ‘Message to a Monster’ and launched an e petition calling for the notion of ostensible consent to be abolished in child sex cases. Three years later, Sam headed a panel of 11 victims at the Oldham CSE inquiry. Her complaints against police and council were upheld and she received apologies. She has since been pushing Oldham council to hold a broad review which she hopes will lead to the introduction of new safety measures for all children. She recently learned she has been successful, and the inquiry will now go ahead. Sam has battled back from unimaginable tragedy, including the death of her husband, to fight for change. She has found peace converting to Islam and is determined to remove race labels from the grooming debate. Sam says: “I can’t change what’s happened to me. But I can speak out to try and make sure all children are aware of grooming and how to stop it. We have to educate and protect our children, so that child sex exploitation becomes a thing of the past.”"

Ann Cusack, Sam Walker-Roberts (Author), TBD (Narrator)

Audiobook

Cheryl Fergison: Behind the Scenes

"Beloved Eastenders actress Cheryl Fergison brings her life to paper for the first time, detailing the highs and lows of her career from her iconic portrayal of Heather Trott to appearing on numerous panels and reality TV shows from Loose Women to Celebrity Big Brother. But it's her life off screen which is truly extraordinary."

Cheryl Fergison (Author), TBD (Narrator)

Audiobook

Winning the Earthquake: How Jeannette Rankin Defied All Odds to Become the First Woman in Congress

"The first major biography of Jeannette Rankin, a groundbreaking suffragist, activist, and the first American woman to hold federal office. “Few members of Congress have ever stood more alone while being true to a higher honor and loyalty.” ―President John F. Kennedy on Jeannette Rankin Born on a Montana ranch in 1880, Jeannette Rankin knew how to ride a horse, make a fire, and read the sky for weather. But most of all, she knew how to talk to people, how to convince them of her vision for America. It was this rare skill that led her, in 1916, to become the first woman ever elected to the House of Representatives. As her first act, Rankin introduced the legislation that would become the 19th Amendment. Throughout her two terms in 1916 and 1940, she continued to introduce and pass legislation benefiting unions, protecting workers, and increasing aid for children in poverty. In 1941, she stood tall as the sole anti-war voice in Congress during WWII, advocating for pacifism in the face of tragedy and stating that you can no more win a war than you can win an earthquake. A suffragist, feminist, peace activist, workers' rights advocate, progressive, and Republican, Rankin remained ever true to her beliefs―no matter the price she had to pay personally. Yet, despite the momentous steps she made for women in politics, overcoming the boys club of capitalists and career politicians who never wanted to see a woman in Congress, Jeannette Rankin’s story has been largely forgotten. In Winning the Earthquake, Lorissa Rinehart deftly uncovers the compelling history behind this singular American hero, bringing her story back to life."

Lorissa Rinehart (Author), TBD (Narrator)

Audiobook