The Longest Day

This presentation of Ryan's compelling reconstruction of the D-Day invasion is a particularly effective pairing of narrator with text. Clive Chafer's British accent and clear, unemotional delivery work well in what sounds like a contemporary BBC news report. Ryan's meticulously detailed work makes this a classic for history buffs, but it is the heartbreaking personal level he achieves by following actual participants on both sides of the conflict that makes this book so moving. Chafer's measured tone and pace provide the detachment necessary to recount the otherwise unspeakable chaos and carnage of this epic event. This book is difficult to listen to, and it's a tribute to both author and narrator that it's equally difficult to turn off. M.O.B. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine

May 2, 1994
Ryan's classic military study, the basis for the 1972 film with John Wayne, is reissed for the 50th anniversary of D-Day.