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Poland  By  cover art

Poland

By: James A. Michener
Narrated by: Larry McKeever
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Editorial reviews

"Stunning.... An unmatched overview of Polish history.... The families themselves come very much alive, and through them, Poland itself." ( USA Today)

Publisher's summary

In this sweeping novel, James A. Michener chronicles eight tumultuous centuries as three Polish families live out their destinies. The Counts Lubonski, the petty nobles Bukowksi, and the peasants Buk are at times fiercely united, at others tragically divided. With an inspiring tradition of resistance to brutal invaders, from the barbarians to the Nazis, and a heritage of pride that burns through eras of romantic passion and courageous solidarity, their common story reaches a breathtaking culmination in the historic showdown between the ruthless Communists and rebellious farmers of the modern age. Like the heroic land that is its subject, Poland teems with vivid events, unforgettable characters, and the unfolding drama of an entire nation.

©1983 James A. Michener (P)2015 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"Engrossing.... A page-turner in the grand Michener tradition." ( The Washington Post)
"A Michener epic is far more than a bedtime reader, it's an experience. Poland is a monumental effort, a magnificent guide to a better understanding of the country's tribulations." ( Chicago Tribune)

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What listeners say about Poland

Average customer ratings
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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

What an Engrossing Epic!

I am of Polish ancestry but was aware of just small bits of Poland's history. This book taught me so much and has prompted me to learn more.


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5 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Terrible pronunciation

Good reading with abysmal pronunciation of Polish words - it's like he didn't even try!

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Gripping and tedious

I say gripping because the story is unforgettable. I say tedious because so much of Poland’s history repeats itself in hope and hopelessness. They are a resilient, stubborn, courageous and colorful people.

Much like with travel, you cannot get into the minds and hearts of people without having your own mind and heart affected—even changed.

The narrator is perfect. It’s a joy to listen to his rich voice and perceptive storytelling.

Michener, as usual, leaves no stone unturned in unearthing history through the lives of his characters.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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A great story

As with Hawaii and Alaska, the story follows a group of Polish families through several centuries and historic events. I was drawn in and really enjoyed the telling of their stories

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Outstanding Historical Fiction

A great storyteller, Michener takes you through almost a thousand years of Polish History via the families living along the Vistula river.

Highly recommend!!

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    4 out of 5 stars
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Poland

I love James Michener & his writing. The history of Poland, woven into the novel is wonderful. The material is very 'heavy' & requires a much better presentation. The narration is so bad, I almost gave up on listening at least twice. The narrator was without any variation & made the material flat & boring.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Good history presented in an entertaining way

Men have dominated other men to their injury throughout history. Did not know Poland had a history of serfs, basically slaves, and lords. Warfare horrible. Rape, murder, destruction. I will never long for the good old days. There were none. Much wicked prejudice against Poles. Even to this day there are wicked Polack jokes, designed to disparage Poles. Did not know the Nazis wanted to wipe out Poles. Very informative about the horrific treatment the Nazis meted out to their victims in the Polish concentration camps. The novel concluded in the 1980s. Sorry when the novel was over.

Length - almost 31 hours a real bargain.

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  • 11-13-21

Excellent historical novel

Excellent way to get an overview of the rich history of this magnificent country and people.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Essential Reading

Essential reading in light of current struggle over Ukraine. The slow, precise articulation by the narrator took me a while to get used to; but became more than acceptable as the story unfolded. Having read most of Michener’s historical novels over the years; I believe this “Poland” is his masterpiece.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    1 out of 5 stars
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Terrible narrator

Hard to believe anyone could make Michener boring,but Larry Mckever succeeds. Boring, uninflective, bland. Worst narrator at Audible; and I've been a member for over a decade; Other Michener's narrated by others are wonderful.

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