When you blend a master of lyrical language with an outstanding narrator, the result is an unforgettable listening experience. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Robin Whitten discuss this semi-autobiographical novel published in 1909, getting renewed attention with an award-winning feature film and Ballerini’s new narration of the audiobook. Martin, a working-class sailor, falls in love with a member of the upper class, Ruth, and he is inspired to educate himself so he may become worthy of her. However, when he does become a famous writer and scholar, he can’t connect with his working-class roots any more. Ruth abandons him, and he falls into despair. Ballerini makes London’s reality our reality, making this classic a choice listening experience.

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