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  • Title: Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race
  • Author: Margot Lee Shetterly
  • Narrator: Robin Miles
  • Length: 10:48:00
  • Version: Abridged
  • Release Date: 06/09/2016
  • Publisher: HarperAudio
  • Genre: History, Non-Fiction, North America, Science & Technology, Astronomy & Physics, Social Science
  • ISBN13: 9.78E+12
Dear fellow explorers of untold stories,

As I embarked on the audiobook journey of *Hidden Figures: The American Dream and the Untold Story of the Black Women Mathematicians Who Helped Win the Space Race* by Margot Lee Shetterly, narrated by Robin Miles, I was immediately transported to a world where the past whispers its secrets through the voices of those who lived it. This audiobook isn’t just a recounting of historical events; it’s a deeply personal exploration of resilience, intellect, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams against all odds.

Listening to *Hidden Figures* felt like sitting with a wise storyteller who knew how to weave a narrative that was both intimate and expansive. It reminds me of a time when I was driving through the Atacama Desert in Chile, listening to *One Hundred Years of Solitude*. The vast, surreal landscape outside my window mirrored the expansive narrative of García Márquez, just as the intricate stories of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden mirrored the complex tapestry of the American space race. The narrator, Robin Miles, has a voice that carries the weight of history with a warmth that makes you feel like you’re hearing these stories from a trusted elder.

Margot Lee Shetterly’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring to life the incredible contributions of these black women mathematicians. The story unfolds like a journey through time, starting in the segregated South, moving through the labor shortages of World War II, and culminating in the heights of the space race. You can almost feel the tension of the Cold War, taste the determination of these women, and hear the hum of the calculating machines they used to send rockets into space.

Robin Miles’ narration is nothing short of masterful. Her ability to capture the distinct voices and personalities of each woman adds depth and authenticity to the listening experience. Her pacing is impeccable, allowing the listener to fully absorb the historical context and emotional weight of each moment. The audio quality is pristine, making it easy to get lost in the narrative without any distractions.

One of the most striking aspects of *Hidden Figures* is its ability to balance the personal and the historical. Shetterly doesn’t just tell us what these women did; she shows us who they were. Their struggles, their triumphs, their fears, and their dreams are all laid bare, making their achievements all the more remarkable. This audiobook is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of those who have been overlooked by history.

While *Hidden Figures* is undeniably inspiring, it also doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of racism and sexism that these women faced. Shetterly’s narrative is unflinching in its portrayal of the systemic barriers they had to overcome, but it’s also hopeful, showing how their brilliance and determination paved the way for future generations.

For those who enjoy works like *The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks* by Rebecca Skloot or *The Warmth of Other Suns* by Isabel Wilkerson, *Hidden Figures* offers a similar blend of personal narrative and historical analysis. However, it stands apart with its focus on the intersection of race, gender, and science, making it a unique and essential listen.

In conclusion, *Hidden Figures* is more than just an audiobook; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder of the power of hidden histories and the importance of uncovering and celebrating them. I highly recommend this audiobook to anyone who is interested in history, science, or simply a well-told story. Whether you’re a seasoned audiobook listener or new to the format, *Hidden Figures* is sure to leave a lasting impression.

With literary appreciation,

Until our next journey through the pages of history,
Marcus Rivera