Tom Lake

By Ann Patchett
Narrated by Meryl Streep

THE WALKING BOOK CLUB SNEAKER RATINGS:

Motivation to Move: 5 Sneakers
Quality of Narration: 5 Sneakers
Overall Experience: 5 Sneakers
Total moving and listening time: 11 hrs and 22 mins (1.2 speed: 9 hours 28 minutes)

Prepare for a treat: Brilliant Writing, Extraordinary Narration.

Ann Patchett’s masterful writing, paired with Meryl Streep’s exceptional narration in Tom Lake creates an audiobook experience that earns a solid five sneaker ratings from The Walking Book Club®.

Patchett’s storytelling prowess immediately grips the listener, drawing them into an enchanting world of intricately woven narratives and compelling characters.

Streep’s performance as the narrator is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing her talent for bringing characters to life with nuance and depth.

Unlike some stories that may lose their essence in audio format, Tom Lake thrives as an audiobook, thanks to Patchett’s seamless blend of storytelling elements and Streep’s impeccable delivery. Much like Tom Hanks breathed life into The Dutch House, Streep’s narration elevates Tom Lake to new heights of enjoyment, making it a standout in the audiobook realm.

Tom Lake’s relevance extends beyond its captivating narrative and stellar narration. Patchett skillfully incorporates the global pandemic into the storyline, offering a poignant reflection on the experiences of parents whose adult children returned home during those challenging times. This relatable backdrop provides a rich canvas for exploring themes of family dynamics, the complexities of adulthood, and the vibrant setting of a family orchard during cherry harvest season.

As an avid listener who often adjusts playback speeds, I can attest that Streep’s tempo in Tom Lake is perfection, making any adjustments unnecessary.

I eagerly anticipate Patchett’s future works and the accompanying narrator selections, knowing that each new release promises a literary and auditory delight.

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