Travels with Charley in Search of America

Starred review from August 29, 2011
Gary Sinise narrates this audio version of Steinbeck’s classic travelogue—the book documents the author’s trip across America with his poodle Charley—in a tone that is friendly, folksy, and thoughtful. Sinise relays the author’s observations about the physical beauty of America and the character of its varied people in a spontaneous manner, almost as if he’s thinking aloud. Having starred in a variety of film and theater adaptations of the author’s work, Sinise slips naturally into the role of Steinbeck, showing an innate understanding of the author’s voice and his dry, often self-deprecating humor. Additionally, Sinise creates authentic regional accents for the people the author meets in his travels. In describing racism in the South, Sinise’s voice grows somber and sorrowful. His rendition of one scene in particular—a conversation between Steinbeck and a racist—is truly chilling. This audiobook is a must-listen for anyone who enjoys Steinbeck, travelogues, or slices of Americana. A Penguin paperback.