Coming of Age

Studs Terkel, himself an octogenarian, has personally interviewed senior citizens ranging from their early 70's to almost 100 years of age. In his introduction, Terkel addresses how priceless our elderly citizens and their personal experiences are to our country's heritage. Shirley Venard does a remarkable job interpreting each woman's personal account. Her performances personify their wit, intelligence, fortitude, weariness, spirit and grand sense of humor. Allen Hamilton is a virtual chameleon as he reenacts a wide variety of male personal histories. He adds all the ingredients necessary to portray strong-willed, intelligent men from all walks of life, who have been seasoned by life's unexpected twists and turns. B.J.P. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine

March 30, 2009
Originally a bestseller, this classic by the late Studs Terkel addresses the challenges of aging and offers a variety of remarkable firsthand accounts by individuals at the end of their lives. Allen Hamilton and Shirley Venard share reading duties, with each offering their own take on these stories that are alternately humorous, uplifting, heartbreaking and motivational. Hamilton is a true standout: his steady voice is indifferent to time constraints as he devotes himself fully to each story, conveying Terkel's awe at how far society has come and how much further we must go. A New Press hardcover.