(Read by Noah Michael Levine, Audible Studios; downloadable only; 6.5 hours)
Tim Flannery is now a world renowned scientist, credited with discovering more species than Darwin. But 25 years ago he was an unknown Australian making discoveries on the weird and sometimes terrifying islands off New Guinea. He looks back at this adventure with a narrative that is part travelogue, part scientific expedition.
The results vary, as some sections are exciting (and occasionally disgusting), but the material can also seem dated and sometimes rather dull, which is not helped by Levine’s mundane narration. American, not Australian, his diction is clear and crisp, but his overall, middle-American demeanor is bland and one-note.
Grade: B Minus