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True Grit

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About this listen

Now a major film written and directed by the Coen Brothers

There is no knowing what lies in a man's heart.

On a trip to buy ponies, Frank Ross is killed by Torn Chancy, who shoots him down for a horse, $150 cash, and two gold pieces. Ross's single-minded teenage daughter, Mattie, travels to claim his body... Then she meets Rooster - a man with grit - and persuades him to join her on a deadly quest to avenge her father's murder.

Narrated by bestselling American author Donna Tartt, who brings True Grit - her favourite book - to life with perfect intonation, insight and suspense.

©1969 Charles Portis (P)2006 WF Howes Ltd Contemporary Fiction Entertainment & Performing Arts Film & TV Genre Fiction Fiction Heartfelt Entertainment Scary Thought-Provoking

Critic reviews

“What book has given me greater pleasure in the last five years? Or in the last twenty? I do not know. What a writer!” (Roald Dahl)
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Gripping story, superbly narrated by Donna Tartt - thoroughly enjoyable.

Superb narration

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This is a story probably better known, at least in the UK, for its movie adaptations, including the John Wayne classic. But the novel is a masterpiece in its own right, as Donna Tartt argues in an excellent afterword. The story of a bright young girl, Matty Ross, the narrator, seeking revenge for her father’s murder, True Grit explores her partnership with Rooster Cogburn, a jaded, heavy-drinking deputy US Marshall, with a reputation for shooting first and asking questions later, as they go on the trail of the killer, Tom Chainey, and the bandit gang of which he’s a member. Their adventures are related from Matty’s viewpoint in a marvellously deadpan style. Donna Tartt, author of modern classics The Secret History and The Goldfinch, and The Little Friend - also narrated from a young girl’s point of view - tells the story in a wonderfully evocative southern drawl. She’s an enigmatic figure, with limited public profile, which made her narration all the more fascinating. The novel’s plot really picks up momentum in the last hour or so; the finale and closing segments of the novel are masterfully done. For all fans of Westerns, and Tartt, this is obligatory listening.

Where chivalry meets the wild frontier

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

YES. Story telling at it's best and Donna Tartt to read it for you. What's not to like?

What was one of the most memorable moments of True Grit?

Mattie's horse dealing to get, well, a horse. Funny and clever.

What about Donna Tartt’s performance did you like?

Just about the most compellingly listen-able performance you are likely to hear. Every character is distinct and wholly alive.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Not a single moment. The whole book is warm hearted and the soothing of Rooster Cogburn by Mattie a consummate delight.

Any additional comments?

A fine classic given the Rolls-Royce treatment by the reader. Do not miss it!.

True GOLD from TRUE GRIT

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I loved every bit of this book. The characters were full of life.The story told through the girl makes it more fun but at the same time more frightening for her. I keep waiting to hear the voice of John Wayne. But the more I went with the story the more i like the girls voice telling the story. I can't wait to hear it again.......

A Great story narrated by Donna Tartt she's great

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Great story, narrator and atmosphere. One to go back to for sure. Worth the credit absolutely

Just a great book top to bottom

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