AUDIO

The Young Man

by Annie Ernaux
Dreamscape Media. Sept. 2023. tr. from French by Alison L. Strayer. 0:34 hrs. ISBN 9781666646450. $17.99. MEMOIR
COPY ISBN
Nobel Prize winner Ernaux (The Years) presents an account of her yearlong relationship with a man 30 years her junior. Ernaux began an affair with a student, referred to as “A.”, when she was 54 and he was 24. Their relationship evokes memories of her youth, transporting her to her scandalous, free days as a student while also empowering her and making her feel ageless. As they discuss having a child together, the difference between their ages becomes even more stark. Tavia Gilbert gives a strong performance of a self-assured woman who is cognizant of the disparities in the relationship while openly and shamelessly acknowledging how she exploited him for her own gain. Listeners will enjoy this thoughtful, emotional portrait of a woman looking back on her full life as an author and a sensual woman.
VERDICT Although this audio is brief, listeners will be riveted by Ernaux’s exquisite insight and heartfelt memories of a precious year in her life. This latest addition to Ernaux’s oeuvre is a must-purchase for all nonfiction audio collections.
Reviewed by Elyssa Everling , Dec 01, 2023
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

MEDIA

The Last Shot: City Streets, Basketball Dreams
by Frey, Darcy
MEDIA

The Bitter Truth
by Williams, Shanora
MEDIA

Southern Man
by Iles, Greg
MEDIA

Little Rot
by Emezi, Akwaeke
MEDIA

The Phoenix Ballroom
by Hogan, Ruth
MEDIA

Horror Movie
by Tremblay, Paul
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?