Babbitt

By: Sinclair Lewis

Narrated by: Grover Gardner

On the surface, everything is all right with Babbitt’s world of the solid, successful businessman. But in reality, George F. Babbitt is a lonely, middle-aged man. He doesn’t understand his family, has an unsuccessful attempt at an affair, and is almost financially ruined when he dares to voice sympathy for some striking workers. Babbitt finds that his only safety lies deep in the fold of those who play it safe. He is a man who has added a new word to our language: a “Babbitt,” meaning someone who conforms unthinkingly, a sheep.

Public Domain (P)2011 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

“[It is] by its hardness, its efficiency, its compactness that Mr. Lewis’ work excels.” (Virginia Woolf)

surprised!

I'd heard Babbitt referred to as a negative stereotype of a man... but the man, and hisstruggles, are just as relevant today as in the 1920s. human nature well described, mid-life crisis, ... enjoyed it very much.

Started Great

This book was so interesting to me for the first chapters that I immediately checked out Sinclair Lewis' other books. I listened excitedly to the beginning 6 hrs in one sitting. However, it began to drag after that.

For me, when George began acting so negatively toward his wife and seeking an affair with another woman this book took a drastic turn. I kept the book on my phone but I only listened to it between many other books I listened to. After completing another book, if I did not have enough time to "get into" a new book I would fill the rest of my night with Babbit.

It isva shame that all of the other reviewers can so highly praise a book that has a character that seeks to cheat on his wife. It is a sick part of society that obviously all too many relate to.

There are tow reasons I finished this book: (1) I purchased it, (2) the narrator, Grover Gardner, is mesmerizing to listen to. He is the perfect narrator for this book. He has a friendly voice with just a touch of a negative attitude sounding voice.

There are enough redeeming qyalities to merit a rating of a bit over 3.5 (rounded up to 4 because of Gardner's performance).

When was this written???

What a wonderful read! Despite being written almost a century ago, Sinclair has captured the essence of the American human condition, with humor and clever writing, that holds up so very well in the 21st century!
You will enjoy spending time w/ good ole George and might recognize a bunch of folks you already know!

Sadly, could be written today

Always love Grover Gardner as narrator. Good book. History repeats itself. Kind of sad really.

One of the finest works of literature of all time

The perfect, masterfully crafted delivery sets a very high bar for performers. This book is grandiose, universal art.