The Road

By: Jack London

Narrated by: T. Anthony Quinn

In The Road, Jack London embraces the concepts of unconfined individualism and Darwinism through his autobiographical account of his time riding the rails of Canada and the United States. The author of White Fang, The Call of the Wild, and Sea Wolf, relays the time leading up to turning point in his life - a perfunctory trial and a 30-day imprisonment in the Erie County Penitentiary for the crime of vagrancy - an experience so degrading that he turned to a career in writing. This tale of rugged individualism influenced Jack Kerouac and inspired his tale, On the Road. Simultaneously autobiographical and instructional, The Road wryly presents a way of life that embodies wanderlust and the soul's search for true freedom.

Public Domain (P)2015 T. Anthony Quinn

Classic

The Road is a true American Classic. Jack London's prose adds a richness and character to the story that is worth savoring. Kudos to the performance which gives an authentic voice.

Desperate times call for desperate measures

If you could sum up The Road in three words, what would they be?

Life is difficult

Who was your favorite character and why?

The author was my favorite character-although, I was definitely conflicted in my feelings for him. The historical context is SUPER interesting and his stories are FASCINATING. But he is also SUCH a liar! However, I also know that times were very tough back then, and I'm sure that it wasn't easy to survive without some compromises-so I don't feel we should judge him too harshly. It just wasn't easy for me to hear him telling one lie after another to get by!

Which character – as performed by T. Anthony Quinn – was your favorite?

The author (see above)

What’s the most interesting tidbit you’ve picked up from this book?

I enjoyed the part where he was talking to the sailor, who started asking him detailed questions about his (fictitious) adventures on the sea. Each time you thought his lies were about to be exposed, he found a way to turn things around and regain control of the narrative. I felt anxious the entire time!
In general, the words and imagery in this book were SO vivid that I felt as if I were in the 19th century, riding the rails with him!

Any additional comments?

I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review

the reader was very good

some difficult vocabulary, but overall a great story.i would definitly reccomend this book to anyone

Charming, insightful, mind blowing.

This story is the first person perspective of a real life hobo. I had no idea how very dramatic and interesting such a life could be. London is frank about his opinions and though processes as a young outlaw, and it is very enjoyable to see the world through his eyes.

Straightforward storytelling

Like all of Jack London’s work, this is straight forward story telling of his adventures in America atop rail cars and other unusual transportation. Interesting for a glimpse of life in his time. Don’t expect a lot of introspection. This isn’t a moral lesson. It’s entertainment.