In an Instant

Listeners everywhere will be moved by Lee and Bob Woodruff's intimate account of how the TV reporter's January 2006 brain injury in Iraq changed their lives. Hardly alone when it comes to living through the devastation of a roadside bomb, Lee brings to her storytelling--and her emotional survival--the sensibilities of an intelligent writer and a love for her damaged husband that is credited for much of his miraculous recovery. Her sturdy speaking style creates an uplifting but never melodramatic listening experience. Lee's compelling performance and that of her husband (whose microphone time is minimal) offer a lesson in using restraint in the first-person narration of searing personal tragedy. A memorable and potentially transforming listening experience. T.W. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

Starred review from October 15, 2007
The Woodruffs seemingly had everything in January 2006: a successful marriage, four children, and thriving careers. Bob had recently been named coanchor of ABC's World News Tonight, succeeding the legendary Peter Jennings, and Lee was a public relations executive. Then, in an instant, their lives were irrevocably altered when Bob, embedded with the military in Iraq, suffered a catastrophic head injury when he and his cameraman, Doug Vogt, were both hit by an improvised explosive device. In alternating segments, the Woodruffs tell the story of their courtship and early married life and how Bob moved from a successful career as a lawyer with a six-figure income to follow his dream of becoming a journalist. With Lee's support, Bob embarked on a career that frequently took him overseas, leaving Lee to care for their children and home while he chased the news in exotic locales. This powerful dual memoir charts the love and courage the authors share; it is an inspiring story and one that reminds us that there are countless families facing similar tragedies. The narration by both Bob and Lee enhances the listening experience and brings an added poignancy to the events they describe. Highly recommended for all public libraries.Gloria Maxwell, Metropolitan Community Coll. Lib., Kansas City, MO

Copyright 2007 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.