Audiobooks narrated by Frank Marcopolos

"Red Harvest (1929) by Dashiell Hammett is widely recognized as a foundational work in American crime fiction, with a profound and lasting cultural impact. Hammett’s novel is credited with revolutionizing detective fiction. By abandoning the genteel, puzzle-oriented style of earlier mysteries, Red Harvest introduced a new, hard-boiled approach characterized by gritty realism, sharp dialogue, and morally ambiguous characters. The protagonist, the nameless Continental Op, became the prototype for the hard-boiled detective—a figure who would dominate American crime fiction for decades. This style influenced countless writers, including Raymond Chandler, and helped distinguish American crime fiction from its British counterparts. Drawing on Hammett’s own experiences as an operative in the Pinkerton Detective Agency, Red Harvest offers a stark, unflinching look at corruption, violence, and moral decay in American society. The fictional town of 'Poisonville' serves as a metaphor for the broader social and political rot of the Prohibition era, with its depiction of labor strife, organized crime, and the complicity of business and law enforcement. Red Harvest has been interpreted as a Marxist novel, reflecting Hammett’s own leftist views. The narrative suggests that crime and corruption are intrinsic to capitalist society, and the relentless violence in the novel mirrors the brutality of both World War I and industrial capitalism. The book’s refusal to offer clear moral heroes or simple resolutions challenges the conventional good-versus-evil dichotomy, providing a more nuanced and, at times, cynical view of human nature and social systems. Frank Marcopolos is an acclaimed audiobook narrator living in Florida with his dog, Sparky."

Dashiell Hammett (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

Tales from the Twilight: The In-Between Realms of Ambrose Bierce

"Ambrose Bierce (1842–c.1914) was an American writer, journalist, and satirist known for his mordant wit and dark humor. Born in Meigs County, Ohio, he served in the Union Army during the Civil War, experiences that deeply influenced his later works. After the war, Bierce moved to San Francisco, where he became a prominent figure in literary circles. He contributed to newspapers and magazines with his sharp, often cynical prose. Bierce is best known for his short story collection 'Tales of Soldiers and Civilians,' particularly the story 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge,' and his satirical dictionary, 'The Devil's Dictionary.' His later years were marked by travel to England and Mexico; his disappearance in Mexico around 1913 or 1914 remains one of literature's most famous mysteries. Bierce's legacy includes his contributions to the genres of horror and fantasy and his critical view of human nature. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky. The stories included here are: An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge; The Damned Thing; Staley Fleming's Hallucination; Parker Adderson, Philosopher; The Boarded Window; An Inhabitant of Carcosa; My Favorite Murder; The Middle Toe of the Right Foot; The Death of Halpin Frayser; One Summer Night; The Moonlit Road; A Psychological Shipwreck; Beyond the Wall; The Man and the Snake; and, A Bottomless Grave."

Ambrose Bierce (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

Men Without Women: 14 Hemingway Stories, Including 4 Featuring Nick Adams

"'In Men Without Women, Ernest Hemingway crafts a collection of fourteen poignant stories that delve into the lives of men grappling with love, loss, and the harsh realities of existence. From the bullfighting arenas of Spain to the lonely streets of America, these tales explore themes of masculinity, courage, and the profound solitude of the human condition. With his trademark terse prose, Hemingway captures the essence of his characters' struggles and the inescapable void left by the absence of women in their lives. A timeless exploration of stoicism and vulnerability.' - G.R. Horndebakker Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961) was an American novelist, short story writer, and journalist, renowned for his distinctive writing style characterized by economy and understatement. Born in Oak Park, Illinois, he served as an ambulance driver in World War I, an experience that deeply influenced his work. Hemingway's notable works include The Old Man and the Sea, for which he won the Pulitzer Prize in 1953, and A Farewell to Arms. Hemingway was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954 for his powerful, style-forming mastery of the art of modern narration. Hemingway's legacy continues to influence literature with his minimalist approach and exploration of themes like courage, loss, and existential solitude. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky. He was a U.S paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division during the war. Important Note: Certain words that are inappropriate to use in the modern day, such as the n-word and the k-word, were kept IN these performances in accordance with the Library of America text and for historical accuracy. This is the remastered version, published in July of 2025."

Ernest Hemingway (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

Ayn Rand's Anthem

"Ayn Rand (born Alisa Zinovyevna Rosenbaum; February 2, 1905 – March 6, 1982) was a Russian-American writer and philosopher known for her contributions to literature with themes advocating individualism and capitalism. Rand's works remain popular for their strong narrative style and provocative ideas, while her philosophy remains a subject of both admiration and critique in philosophical and political discourse. Anthem is a dystopian novella set in a future where individuality has been eradicated, and collectivism rules supreme. It serves as a critique of collectivism, warning against the dehumanization that can occur when individual rights are sacrificed for the supposed good of the collective. It's a concise exploration of Rand's Objectivism, focusing on the virtues and importance of the individual's mind and freedom. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky."

Ayn Rand (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Little Trilogy

"Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) was a Russian playwright and short-story writer, widely regarded as one of the greatest literary figures of all time. Born in Taganrog, he initially studied medicine at Moscow University, and his medical background often influenced his writing, giving him a unique perspective on human condition and psychology. Chekhov gained fame through his short stories, which are known for their brevity, depth of character development, and underlying themes of human despair and hope. His plays, including 'The Seagull,' 'Uncle Vanya,' 'Three Sisters,' and 'The Cherry Orchard,' revolutionized modern drama with their subtle psychological realism and focus on the internal lives of characters. Chekhov's work has left a profound impact on literature and theatre, blending humor with tragedy and exploring the mundane to reveal deeper philosophical questions. He died of tuberculosis at the age of 44, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence writers and playwrights globally. The Little Trilogy significantly impacted literary fiction by showcasing mastery of the short story form, using concise yet profound narratives to explore themes of human isolation, societal constraints, and unfulfilled desires. Its subtle irony and psychological depth influenced modernist writers, reinforcing Chekhov's legacy as a pioneer of introspective storytelling. Constance Garnett (1861-1946) was a British translator who played a pivotal role in introducing Russian literature to the English-speaking world. Born in Brighton, England, Garnett learned Russian in her 20s and began translating Russian works in the late 19th century. She is most celebrated for her translations of the works of Anton Chekhov, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Leo Tolstoy, and Ivan Turgenev, among others. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky. He was a U.S. paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division during the war."

Anton Chekhov (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

Wild Hearts and Frozen Trails: The Untamed Worlds of Jack London

"Jack London, born John Griffith Chaney on January 12, 1876, in San Francisco, California, was an American novelist, journalist, and social activist. He is best known for his adventure novels 'The Call of the Wild' and 'White Fang,' both of which explore the themes of survival and the law of the jungle in the harsh environment of the Klondike Gold Rush. London's life was as adventurous as his stories. He traveled extensively, lived in Hawaii, and engaged in numerous physical pursuits, which ultimately led to his health decline. He died on November 22, 1916, at his ranch in Glen Ellen, California, from kidney failure at the age of 40. Despite his short life, London's impact on literature, especially in portraying the natural world and human nature, remains significant. His works have been translated into many languages and continue to be popular for their vivid storytelling and exploration of human spirit and endurance. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky."

Jack London (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

A Car Crash of Sorts: A Military Romance Story

"'A Car Crash of Sorts' by Frank Marcopolos is a short story that delves into themes of existential ennui, regret, and the search for meaning. The narrative uses the car journey and alternate points of view as symbols for life's disquieting journey, with the crash representing a moment of clarity or breakdown. The story captures the melancholy of aging, the fading of youth's drive, and the quiet desperation to find or reclaim purpose in life. The prose style of Marcopolos is noted for its introspective, somewhat fragmented nature, mirroring the confusion and fragmented memories of the protagonist. The story doesn't resolve in a traditional sense but leaves the reader with a sense of the ongoing struggle to find meaning in a life that might seem to others like a series of unremarkable events or 'crashes.' Based on real events, this is a tale woven into the fabric of an every-man's life. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky. He was a U.S. paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division during the war."

Frank Marcopolos (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

Whispers from the Abyss: 18 Macabre Tales and 8 Dark Poems

"Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) was an American writer, poet, editor, and literary critic, best known for his tales of mystery and the macabre. Born in Boston, Poe was orphaned young and raised by a foster family in Richmond, Virginia. He attended the University of Virginia but left due to financial issues, later joining the U.S. Army. Poe's literary career began with poetry, but he gained fame with his short stories, particularly with 'The Fall of the House of Usher,' 'The Tell-Tale Heart,' and 'The Cask of Amontillado.' He's also celebrated for his poem 'The Raven,' which became an instant success. Poe pioneered the detective fiction genre with 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue,' introducing C. Auguste Dupin. His works often explore themes of death, loss, and the human psyche. Poe's life was marked by poverty, alcoholism, and personal tragedy, and he died under mysterious circumstances at the age of 40. His influence on literature, especially in horror and detective genres, remains profound. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his beloved dog, Sparky. 'A Turn for the Worse - Sadness,' 'I Feel You,' and 'Lone Harvest' by Kevin MacLeod are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/?keywords=worse Artist: http://incompetech.com/ 'Cold Morning' by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) Artist: http://audionautix.com/ All other music and sound effects are in the public domain."

Edgar Allan Poe (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Duel

"Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) was a Russian playwright and short-story writer, renowned for his contributions to modern literature. Born in Taganrog, he studied medicine at Moscow University, becoming a doctor. His literary career began with humorous sketches, evolving into profound short stories noted for their realism and depth. His works are celebrated for their subtle humor, compassion, and exploration of the human condition. Chekhov died of tuberculosis at age 44, leaving a lasting impact on both theater and literature. The Duel explores the clash between idealism and materialism through the contrasting worldviews of its characters, using their personal conflicts to reflect broader philosophical and societal tensions. Its literary significance lies in its nuanced portrayal of human nature and moral ambiguity, characteristic of Chekhov's psychological realism. Constance Garnett (1861-1946) was a British translator who significantly influenced English-speaking readers' access to Russian literature. Garnett is best known for her translations of works by Russian authors like Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Chekhov, Turgenev, and Gogol. Her translations, starting in the early 20th century, brought these classics to a broader audience. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky. He was a U.S. paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division during the war."

Anton Chekhov (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

Ward Number Six

"Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) was a renowned Russian playwright and short-story writer, widely considered one of the greatest literary figures in history. Chekhov's influence extends beyond literature into theatre; his techniques and style have inspired countless writers and playwrights. His works are celebrated for their realism, complexity, and the way they capture the essence of human existence, often with a blend of humor and tragedy. Chekhov's concise yet profound storytelling and his innovative approach to drama have left an indelible mark on world literature. Ward Number Six profoundly influenced literary fiction by blending psychological realism with social critique, exposing the dehumanizing effects of institutional systems and the blurred lines between sanity and madness. Its introspective narrative and tragic portrayal of existential despair inspired later modernist writers to explore themes of alienation and moral decay. Constance Garnett (1861-1946) was a British translator known for her extensive translations of Russian literature into English. Garnett's translations not only made Russian literature accessible but also influenced how English-speaking readers perceived Russian culture, contributing significantly to literary cross-cultural exchange. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky. He was a U.S. paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division during the war."

Anton Chekhov (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Great Gatsby

"The Great Gatsby, set in the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties on Long Island, New York, is a poignant critique of the American Dream. The novel is not just a love story but a tragic tale of ambition, class, and the illusion of social mobility, encapsulated in the era's excess and disillusionment. When the novel was first published in 1925, it did not enjoy immediate commercial success. Only around 20,000 copies were sold in its first year, and Fitzgerald himself considered it a commercial disappointment. By the time of his death in 1940, Fitzgerald felt his work, including Gatsby, had been forgotten, with sales being so low that he was reportedly buying copies himself to keep it in print. The novel's fortunes changed dramatically during World War II when the Council on Books in Wartime chose it for distribution to American soldiers, printing over 155,000 copies. This initiative significantly boosted its popularity and recognition, transforming it from a largely forgotten work into an American classic. Today, The Great Gatsby sells approximately 500,000 copies annually, with total sales reaching over 25 million copies worldwide since its original publication. It has become Scribner's best-selling title, illustrating its enduring appeal and commercial success. Overall, The Great Gatsby has not only achieved commercial success but has also left a profound and lasting impact on American literature and culture, embodying the complexities and contradictions of the American experience. F. Scott Fitzgerald (September 24, 1896 – December 21, 1940) was an American novelist and short story writer, widely regarded as one of the greatest writers of the 20th century. His works are emblematic of the Jazz Age, particularly capturing the spirit and excesses of the Roaring Twenties in America. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky."

F. Scott Fitzgerald (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

The Apology of Socrates

"Plato is one of the towering figures in Western philosophy, whose works have significantly shaped the course of intellectual history. He was an Athenian philosopher during the Classical period in Ancient Greece, known for his dialogues, which form the foundation of Western philosophy and science. Plato’s philosophy was not just about abstract thought; it was deeply practical, aiming to guide human conduct and societal organization towards justice and virtue. His Academy continued to function for nearly a thousand years, illustrating the enduring legacy of his intellectual pursuits. The Apology of Socrates is a philosophical text detailing the speech Socrates gives during his trial in 399 BC in Athens for charges of corrupting the youth and impiety (not believing in the gods of the state and introducing new deities). The Apology not only serves as a defense but also as a profound statement on living philosophically, the nature of wisdom, and the value of an examined life, even in the face of death. Frank Marcopolos lives in Florida with his dog, Sparky."

Plato (Author), Frank Marcopolos (Narrator)

Audiobook

Audiobooks Narrated by Frank Marcopolos