Audiobook Sample
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- Title: City of Girls: A Novel
- Author: Elizabeth Gilbert
- Narrator: Blair Brown
- Length: 15:09:40
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 04/06/2019
- Publisher: Penguin Audio
- Genre: Fiction & Literature, Literary Fiction, Contemporary Women, Family Life
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
As I sat on a sunlit balcony in Seville, the scent of orange blossoms mingling with the warm Mediterranean breeze, I pressed play on Elizabeth Gilbert’s ‘City of Girls,’ narrated by the incomparable Blair Brown. It was a moment that reminded me of my time in Oaxaca, listening to an abuela weave stories with such skill that the world outside her porch seemed to disappear. Gilbert’s novel, brought to life by Brown’s narration, has that same magical quality of transporting you completely to another time and place.
The audiobook experience of ‘City of Girls’ is like stepping into a time machine set for 1940s New York. The story unfolds through the eyes of Vivian Morris, a nineteen-year-old who has just been expelled from Vassar College and is sent to live with her eccentric Aunt Peg in Manhattan. From the moment Brown’s voice begins to narrate, you can almost feel the cobblestones of Greenwich Village under your feet and hear the clinking of glasses in smoky bars.
Gilbert’s writing is a masterclass in character development, and Brown’s narration enhances this beautifully. She captures Vivian’s youthful exuberance, her naivety, and her eventual growth with a nuanced performance that feels incredibly authentic. The secondary characters, from the flamboyant showgirls to the brooding male lead, are equally well-voiced, each distinct and memorable.
One of the most striking aspects of the audiobook is how it handles themes of female sexuality and freedom. Gilbert doesn’t shy away from the complexities of these issues, and Brown’s narration ensures that every emotional beat is felt deeply. There’s a particular scene where Vivian reflects on her mistakes and the societal judgments she faces that resonated with me. It reminded me of conversations I’ve had with women across different cultures, from the markets of Marrakech to the cafes of Buenos Aires, about the pressures and expectations placed on them.
The production quality of the audiobook is top-notch. The pacing is perfect, allowing you to savor Gilbert’s rich descriptions and the lively dialogue. There’s a musicality to Brown’s voice that makes the listening experience truly immersive. It’s the kind of audiobook that makes you want to take the long way home, just to keep listening.
However, ‘City of Girls’ is not without its flaws. Some listeners might find Vivian’s journey of self-discovery a bit predictable, and the plot does meander at times. But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise captivating story. It’s a novel that pairs well with a glass of wine and a cozy evening, much like the way I enjoyed it in Seville.
For those who enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads, this audiobook is a must-listen. It stands alongside works like ‘The Paris Wife’ and ‘The Nightingale,’ offering a vivid portrayal of a bygone era and the women who navigated its challenges. Blair Brown’s narration adds an extra layer of depth and enjoyment, making it a standout in the genre.
As I reached the end of the audiobook, with the sun setting over the rooftops of Seville, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. ‘City of Girls’ had taken me on a journey through time, introduced me to unforgettable characters, and left me with a renewed appreciation for the complexities of life and love.
With wanderlust and a love for stories,
Marcus Rivera
