Book Group Comments on Listening to SMALL GREAT THINGS on Audio
In October, a selection of book groups won audiobook copies of SMALL GREAT THINGS written by Jodi Picoult, read by Audra McDonald with Cassandra Campbell and Ari Fliakos. The book groups were asked to listen to the audiobook and answer some questions about the experience.Take a look at some of the groups' comments below.
Susie S. and her group from New Rockford, ND
Book’s Content/Storyline Rating: 4
How would you describe the book to another reader?: This is a relevant story about racism.
Audio Performance Rating: 4
What were your feelings about the Audio Performance?: About half of the group had listened to audiobooks before. The other half who had not listened to audiobooks before thought the story was a bit long for their first audiobook (16 hours!). The performer was fabulous; she truly brought Ruth to life. Cassandra was good, but one person didn't like her male voices. Ari was great too, even though his parts were the hardest to listen to because of the white supremacist language. The ones that had never listened to audiobooks before really enjoyed the parts in the courtroom.
Did you listen to audiobooks before this?: Half are audiophiles and half had never listened before. The audiophiles listen regularly and read all genres except for romance. Those who were new to audiobooks would try again, but would try with a shorter book.
Did you solely listen to the audiobook for this book club meeting or did you go back and forth with the print book?: Honestly, our readers that had never listened to audiobooks did some in audio and some in print. They said they still enjoyed the book, but it was too long to listen to the whole thing and that is why they read parts in print. For myself, I have many whispersync books, but never end up looking at the eBook even though I’m a huge audiophile. The other audiophiles said they haven't ever gone back and forth either.
Karen S. and her group from Pisgah Forest/Brevard, NC
Book’s Content/Storyline Rating: 5
How would you describe the book to another reader?: It was thought-provoking, eye-opening and stunning. It was difficult to listen to, but powerful.
Audio Performance Rating: 5
What were your feelings about the Audio Performance?: Overall, my group thought the performer did an amazing job of creating the characters.
Did you listen to audiobooks before this?: Most of our group had listened to audio recordings before, but not extensively. Several prefer nonfiction on audio, especially if they are driving and listening in the car. Everyone will continue to listen to audiobooks.
Did you solely listen to the audiobook for this book club meeting or did you go back and forth with the print book?: Half of our group listened to the entire book on audio. A couple reverted to a print edition. Some felt that there were multiple places in the book that they would have liked to have referred back to an earlier chapter which is nearly impossible to do on audio. Others wanted to bookmark sections for discussion which you can do with print or eBooks. Overall, our group loved the book and enjoyed the audio experience!
Kelly A. and her group from Hobart, WI
Book’s Content/Storyline Rating: 5
How would you describe the book to another reader?: It was eye-opening and edgy. It addresses racism head on. The book is able to use a fictional story to really get people to think about their role in the racism debate, and in their own lives. It was very emotional! A black nurse has to decide how far she should and will go to care for the baby of a white supremacist. The results of her actions are questioned, and she enlists the aid of a public defender who is a white female. We learn about both active and passive racism and discrimination, and most readers will come to the conclusion that they are not as “not racist” as they think.
Audio Performance Rating: 5
What were your feelings about the Audio Performance?: The performers were perfect for the different character voices. Having a different narrator for each character greatly enhanced the listening experience, and they all did a very good job. They made it not just a typical reading of a book, but more of a performance.
Did you listen to audiobooks before this?: Yes, frequently. I read and listen to all types of books. There is no distinction as to genre. I love audiobooks for commuting and listening to before bed for relaxation.
Did you solely listen to the audiobook for this book club meeting or did you go back and forth with the print book?: I also read the book. I listened after reading it, and the audio version definitely enhanced my experience. I have tried reading and listening simultaneously, but I have a hard time getting to the exact places in the book or CD at which I want to restart. I do not have an eReader, but listening and eReading might work.
