Audiobook Review of Twelve Against the Gods by Bolitho

Introduction

Twelve Against the Gods: The Story of Adventure, written by William Bolitho and narrated by Ric Jerom, is a captivating exploration of the lives of twelve extraordinary adventurers.

This unabridged audiobook, released by Audible Studios, spans 15 hours and 35 minutes. With a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, it offers listeners a deep dive into the lives and legacies of some of history’s most daring individuals.

Product Details

Summary

First published in 1929, Twelve Against the Gods was an instant bestseller. Bolitho’s journalistic style vividly brings to life the stories of twelve adventurers who defied convention and shaped history.

The book features Alexander the Great, Casanova, Christopher Columbus, Mahomet, Lola Montez, Cagliostro (and Seraphina), Charles XII of Sweden, Napoleon I, Lucius Sergius Catiline, Napoleon III, Isadora Duncan, and Woodrow Wilson. Through their stories, Bolitho highlights their struggles, successes, and the relentless pursuit of their ambitions.

The audiobook, published by Audible Studios, provides an in-depth look at the lives of twelve remarkable individuals who challenged the status quo and left an indelible mark on history.

Bolitho’s exploration of these adventurers’ lives is both insightful and inspiring, offering a unique perspective on the qualities that drive exceptional people.

Author and Narrator

William Bolitho, a South African journalist and writer, was a contemporary of literary giants like Ernest Hemingway and Noël Coward. Known for his incisive and engaging writing style, Bolitho’s work delves into the human spirit’s drive for adventure and achievement.

Ric Jerom, the narrator, delivers a compelling performance that brings Bolitho’s prose to life. His narration captures the essence of each adventurer’s story, making the audiobook an engaging experience for listeners.

Detailed Review

Strengths

• Diverse Biographies: Twelve Against the Gods covers a wide range of historical figures from different eras and backgrounds. This diversity keeps the narrative engaging and provides listeners with a broad perspective on what it means to be an adventurer.
• Narration: Ric Jerom’s narration is a highlight of this audiobook. His clear and expressive voice makes the complex histories accessible and enjoyable.
• Inspirational Content: The book offers valuable insights into the mindset and qualities that drive high achievers. It’s particularly inspiring for listeners interested in leadership and personal development.

Weaknesses

• Complex Prose: Bolitho’s writing can be dense and challenging to follow at times. Listeners might find some sections difficult to understand without prior knowledge of the historical context.
• Historical Bias: As with any historical account, Bolitho’s portrayal of these figures reflects the biases of his time. Some modern listeners might find certain perspectives outdated.

Historical Impact

Twelve Against the Gods sheds light on the qualities that define great adventurers and leaders. By examining the lives of these twelve individuals, Bolitho offers a timeless exploration of ambition, risk-taking, and the pursuit of greatness.

The book’s historical impact lies in its ability to inspire readers to challenge the status quo and strive for extraordinary achievements.

Personal Reflections

Listening to Twelve Against the Gods is both an enlightening and motivational experience. The detailed biographies provide a deeper understanding of what drives exceptional individuals.

Bolitho’s exploration of promise, risk, and success resonates with anyone seeking to break free from conventional constraints and achieve something remarkable.

Final Thoughts

Twelve Against the Gods by William Bolitho, narrated by Ric Jerom, is a must-listen for history enthusiasts and those interested in personal development.

Its rich biographical content, combined with Jerome’s engaging narration, makes it a valuable resource for understanding the qualities that define great adventurers. Despite its complex prose and historical biases, the audiobook offers a compelling and educational listening experience.

Overall, Twelve Against the Gods is a fascinating and inspiring audiobook that delves into the lives of twelve remarkable adventurers. Its combination of diverse biographies, engaging narration, and inspirational content makes it a highly recommended listen for anyone interested in history and personal development.