SHIP OF GHOSTS The Story of the USS Houston, FDR’s Legendary Lost Cruiser, and the Epic Saga of Her Survivors

This story and its teller match so perfectly that James Hornfischer’s history of the final battle of a WWII naval cruiser and its captured crew deserves the highest praise. The author combines details from the men’s memories and the historical record using a rare descriptive ability to paint word pictures as distinct and lasting as oil on canvas. Narrator Marc Cashman’s manner resembles conversation; one can’t believe he isn’t speaking from within. The pace, volume, and intonations he chooses seem natural, and the listener’s attention never sways from the riveting story of action, suffering, and survival. His worthy ability to enunciate without sounding forced adds a pleasant dimension to an audiobook that is hard to pause until the final words. J.A.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 07]