Some names you can't help but know. Others are are well-known only within their business or work fields.

The essays run the gamut from the incredibly touching to the delightfully zany. They are all extremely personal and, for the most part, written well.

I listen to a great many audio books, and there is a particular talent for reading in a way that makes people want to listen. Unfortunately I'd have to say that neither of the Grodins has it, though Marion is far worse than Charles. It is never more evident than when she reads the essay by Kitty Carlisle Hart and mangles the French phrases. I took French in college and don't speak it worth a damn, and I could tell that she was demolishing some pretty simple phrases.

However, in spite of that, if your only access to this book is the audio version, I'd say buy it. The essays fortunately DO survive the readings and are worthwhile.

Additionally, the entire project is donating all of Grodin's proceeds to HELP USA, a not-for-profit organization with a mission to empower the homeless and others in need to become and remain self-reliant. It's a good cause and extremely fitting to both Charles Grodin's way of living and the essays of those who participated in the project.