This November 11th marks the 78th Veterans Day since 1938. November 11, 1918 is regarded as the end of World War I and in 1919 President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it Armistice Day and would “be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory.” In 1938, Armistice Day was changed to Veterans Day by President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclamation and commemorates those who served our country.
November’s audiobook selection features not only stories of veterans, but also unsung heroes, the family and friends of veterans and others affected by war.
Deb suggests:
Unbroken : a World War II story of survival, resilience, and redemption by Laura Hillenbrand; CD 940.5472 Z26c
Louie Zamperini’s story of survival and resilience and his journey from a juvenile delinquent to Olympic runner to Army hero is set during World War II and is “[a]mbitious and powerful . . . a startling narrative and an inspirational book.”—The New York Times Book Review
Mayflower : a story of courage, community, and war by Nathaniel Philbrick; CD 973.2 P545c
The romantic story of the Pilgrim settlement of New England is upended in this recounting by Philbrick. A story of survival, courage, and grim reality, Mayflower will shed light on the true history of America’s first settlers.
Taryn says:
The War of the Worlds by H. G. Welles; CD Fic Wells
This story should definitely be heard rather than read. Originally the "audio" version was directed and narrated by Welles - airing on Halloween. It became famous for allegedly causing mass panic, although the reality of the panic is disputed as the program had relatively few listeners!
Liar, temptress, soldier, spy : four women undercover in the Civil War by Karen Abbott; CD 973.785 A132
A sizzling narrative about four ladies who defied gender norms and did their duty for home and country.
Further picks:
The cellist of Sarajevo by Steven Galloway; CD Fic Galloway
This novel about war, how precious the insignificant daily rituals can be, and the enduring human spirit is inspired by cellist Vedran Smailovic who played for 22 days in Sarajevo, Bosnia in 1992.
Home: a novel by Toni Morrison; CD Fic Morrison
Korean War vet Frank Money returns home to 1950s Lotus, Georgia to save his younger sister Cee. Haunted by memories of war and struggling with alcohol dependency, Frank returns with Cee to their hometown to begin their path to healing. Read by the author.
