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Gilead

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Gilead

By: Marilynne Robinson
Narrated by: Tim Jerome
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About this listen

Pulitzer Prize, Fiction, 2005

National Book Critics Circle Award, Fiction, 2005

From the author of Housekeeping, Gilead is the long-hoped-for second novel by one of America's finest writers.

Chosen by the New York Times Book Review as one of the top six novels of 2004.

In 1956, toward the end of Reverend John Ames' life, he begins a letter to his young son, a kind of last testament to his remarkable forebears.

©2005 Marilynne Robinson (P)2008 Hachette Digital Fiction Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Heartfelt

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Critic reviews

"It is a book of such meditative calm, such spiritual intensity that is seems miraculous that her silence was only for 23 years; such measure of wisdom is the fruit of a lifetime." ( Neel Mukherjee, The Times)
"Writing of this quality, with an authority as unforced as the perfect pitch in music, is rare and carries with it a sense almost of danger - that at any moment, it might all go wrong. In Gilead, however, nothing goes wrong." ( Jane Shilling, Sunday Telegraph)
"The gently American, finely judged narration succeeds in combining contemplation with vigour and in conveying a suggestion of mysticism." ( The Observer)
All stars
Most relevant
The perfect match between narrator and protagonist. So well performed. But the story is outstanding, with so many heart-wrenching, unforgettable scenes. If you would like a novel that will change your life forever, choose this.

Breathtakingly beautiful

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That Marilynne Robinson created this story and Tim Jerome brought him to life so effectively and that I had to remind myself that this was a 'made-up' story, gives Gilead its strength. It is masterly. Not much happens and the main character has a constrained world view - but I feel better for having listened to him. No bells and whistles, just a preacher, preaching to his son and his flock.

This is a story not a biography!

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I just loved this novel - sad in many ways yet full of hope. Perfect narration.

Full of beauty and grace

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It is an enormous pleasure to hear a masterpiece matched by the quality of its reading. A performance of astonishing conviction.

Gilead justifies all its accolades and more

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Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Absolutely. Although I am not at all religious, I do have a spiritual side and from time to time I ponder my values, what my purpose in life is and whether I'm being the best person I can be. In this beautiful story, that is exactly what John Ames also did, and I very much enjoyed reflecting on his ideas and observations - strengths, foibles and all. Everything about this book was serene and uplifting. It was a treat to listen to.

Have you listened to any of Tim Jerome’s other performances? How does this one compare?

Tim Jerome is a first-class narrator. The more audiobooks I listen to, the more I have come to appreciate the incredible talent of professional narrators like Jerome. The tone, timing, rhythm and pace and character understanding are all spot on. I will definitely be looking out for more of his work.

Beautiful story, excellent narration

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