Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Small Great Things: A Novel
- Author: Jodi Picoult
- Narrator: Ari Fliakos, Audra McDonald, Cassandra Campbell
- Length: 16:15:00
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 11/10/2016
- Publisher: Random House (Audio)
- Genre: Fiction & Literature, Literary Fiction, Contemporary Women, Sagas, Fiction & Literature, Literary Fiction, Contemporary Women, Sagas, Fiction & Literature, Literary Fiction, Contemporary Women, Sagas
- ISBN13: 9.78E+12
When I first pressed play on *Small Great Things: A Novel* by Jodi Picoult, narrated by Ari Fliakos, Audra McDonald, and Cassandra Campbell, I was immediately drawn into a narrative that felt both deeply personal and universally resonant. This audiobook experience is a masterclass in storytelling, blending richly layered characters with a gripping moral dilemma that challenges listeners to confront their own perceptions of privilege, power, and race.
Picoult’s novel follows Ruth Jefferson, an African American labor and delivery nurse with over twenty years of experience, who is reassigned from caring for a newborn due to the parents’ white supremacist beliefs. The baby later goes into cardiac distress while Ruth is alone in the nursery, leading to a devastating chain of events. The story is a poignant exploration of systemic racism, justice, and the complexities of human relationships.
The audiobook’s narration is nothing short of extraordinary. Ari Fliakos, Audra McDonald, and Cassandra Campbell bring a dynamic range of voices and emotions to the characters, making the listening experience immersive and impactful. McDonald’s portrayal of Ruth is particularly compelling, capturing her strength, vulnerability, and inner turmoil with a nuanced performance that stays with you long after the final chapter.
As someone who has spent years analyzing the intersection of digital storytelling and cultural narratives, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to my own experiences. For instance, when I compared the different formats of *Project Hail Mary* for my podcast, I was struck by how sound design and vocal performance can elevate a story. Similarly, *Small Great Things* benefits immensely from its audio format, where the narrators’ voices add layers of depth to the characters’ struggles and triumphs.
The cultural impact of this audiobook is undeniable. Picoult tackles race and prejudice with incredible empathy and candor, offering no easy answers but plenty of food for thought. The courtroom drama, the media frenzy, and the personal journeys of Ruth and her public defender, Kennedy McQuarrie, are all brought to life with a clarity that feels both urgent and timeless.
However, the audiobook is not without its limitations. Some listeners might find the shifting perspectives and moral complexities challenging to navigate, especially in audio form. Yet, this complexity is also the story’s strength, encouraging active engagement and critical reflection.
In comparison to similar works like *The Hate U Give* by Angie Thomas or *Americanah* by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, *Small Great Things* stands out for its focus on the intersection of race and the legal system. The audiobook format enhances its emotional resonance, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary social issues.
In conclusion, *Small Great Things: A Novel* audiobook is a powerful and thought-provoking experience that will leave you questioning your own assumptions and beliefs. Whether you’re a seasoned audiobook listener or new to the format, this is a story that demands to be heard.
Happy listening and keep exploring the stories that shape our world!
Sophie Bennett
