Ten Years Later

In this near perfect production, "Today" show cohost Hoda Kotb speaks with natural clarity and polish. The writing is also excellent; she and her writing partner make the drama in these stories flow with exactly the right amount of suspense and well-placed color. Throughout the audio, Kotb shares these stories with her "breaking news" voice, which fits the pathos in these six lives but may sound a bit relentless to some listeners. Her message, delivered effectively nonetheless, is that even when faced with obstacles and tragedies, people have the resilience to work toward a brighter, happier future. Some of the stories are graphic and disturbing, but this helps make the audio a gripping and inspiring experience. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine