cover image The Death of Santini: The Story of a Father and His Son

The Death of Santini: The Story of a Father and His Son

Pat Conroy, read by Dick Hill. Random House Audio, unabridged, 12 CDs, 15.25 hrs., $45 ISBN 978-0-307-98982-6

Conroy’s memoir chronicles his relationship with his domineering fighter-pilot father, Donald Patrick Conroy, and the lifelong challenges he faced because of this father’s emotional abuse, violence, and neglect. The author illustrates the complex intergenerational problems that were created by his father’s conduct, including breakdowns and hospitalizations. Conroy himself deftly reads the book’s introduction, but narrator Hill shines in this audio edition, delivering the highly emotional material in a way that will leave listeners exhausted by the end. Hill’s reading is consistent, and he creates rich characters voices that are distinct and appropriate. A Nan A. Talese hardcover. (Oct.)