Abridged Audiobook
This book was done very well. The first half gave insight into the struggles that created the base li e for the project. The second half was so interesting with the medical problems and engineering tasks that were used. The narrator was easy to listen too.
Interesting history of the canal and some of the US history with Columbia and Panama.
Fascinating story even if you did not know you were interested in the Panama Canal. Plus, it is hard to beat Edward Herrmann as a narrator. McCullough is a master storyteller and a bestselling author for good reason. You do not have to love history to enjoy his books/topics. It says this audio book is an abridged version, which makes it an easy listen. I loved every detail, but it could be more than some desire. (Disclaimer: I have a degree in history and love it.) I felt like they probably included everything that was both pertinent and that gives the reader (listener) a well-rounded picture without the exhaustive detail that may have been in the book. I do not know if the book was as detailed as his book on Truman, (I listened to all 54 hours of the audio book on Truman). I do agree with another reviewer that the abridged version occasionally leaves you wondering how you got from one thing to the next, but then you remember it is abridged and you are fine. You realize you did not miss something and easily jump into the next topic. I do recommend looking at a map of Panama or even finding something historical related to the canal. It is not essential, but it helps if you like to place the key locations McCullough references throughout the book in your mind and understand the path of the canal (which is not in a straight line across the isthmus).
I wanted to love, love, love this audio book because of my personal connection with the Panama Canal, but found it to be a rather dry read. The narration is beautifully done in an authoritative tone. It is a book filled with great detail (even some facts I didn't know after living in the Canal Zone for so many years). I recommend it for anyone with interest in the Canal or a penchant for history.
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