The Bridge at Andau

The Compelling True Story of a Brave, Embattled People

By: James A. Michener

Narrated by: Larry McKeever

The Bridge at Andau is James A. Michener at his most gripping. His classic nonfiction account of a doomed uprising is as searing and unforgettable as any of his bestselling novels. For five brief, glorious days in the autumn of 1956, the Hungarian revolution gave its people a glimpse at a different kind of future—until, at four o’clock in the morning on a Sunday in November, the citizens of Budapest awoke to the shattering sound of Russian tanks ravaging their streets. The revolution was over. But freedom beckoned in the form of a small footbridge at Andau, on the Austrian border. By an accident of history it became, for a few harrowing weeks, one of the most important crossings in the world, as the soul of a nation fled across its unsteady planks.

Praise for The Bridge at Andau

“Precise, vivid . . . immeasurably stirring.”—The Atlantic Monthly

“Dramatic, chilling, enraging.”—San Francisco Chronicle

“Superb.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Highly recommended reading.”—Library Journal

Critic reviews

“Precise, vivid . . . immeasurably stirring.”—The Atlantic Monthly

“Dramatic, chilling, enraging.”—San Francisco Chronicle

“Superb.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Highly recommended reading.”—Library Journal

1956 template of Soviet Terrorism

Required reading in my World History class over 50 years ago along with Hiroshima and Masters of Deceit. With the benefit of modern communications the world can tune in to 24 hr news coverage of Ukraine's present situation for not being a recognized NATO territory.

History Comes Alive

Michener's account of the revolt of the Hungarian people against Russian occupation and Soviet communism is vivid and exciting, even though these events were decades ago.

Larry McKeever's narration perfectly complements Michener's fine history.

Another Michener Classic

This is a compelling narrative of a brave people. I'm wiser for having listened to this.

Crucial history

This book was written immediately after the events in question. In typical Michener style, he finds a way to weave together stories in a way that makes a cohesive, multi-faceted narrative that explains the revolution in a way I have not seen elsewhere. My father participated in the revolution, and although I was never able to get him to give me the full story, everything he told me about those days aligns with what is written in this book.

Must read

History that we can’t forget. Epic story of courage & resilience. I applaud the Hungarian people.