Customer Reviews

The World of Atlas Shrugged: The Essential Companion to Ayn Rand's Masterpiece

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I enjoyed "Atlas Shrugged" and "The Fountainhead", and given their message, wouldn't be so bold as to review either. It had been some years since I first read "Atlas Shrugged" so I purchased this audio disc as a refresher. It couldn't have been a better decision. The two discs walked quickly, but with ample detail, through the plot and major characters, drawing connections I hadn't noticed the first time I read the book, and giving some background as to Ms. Rand's thoughts when originally composing the text. I do not know if I would call it the "Essential" companion, but it is quite good. This Audio Disc makes a great companion to the book, providing just enough to make it worth reading, while not completely reciting the entire text. I would suggest reading the book before listening to the disk as there are some areas of the plot that would be spoiled. However, I do think if you wanted to gauge your interest before tackling the full text, this might not be a bad way to do so.

This is a good audio CD that accomplishes its task very efficiently. It is a great summary of "Atlas Shrugged" with just the right amount of additional detail.

This recording is a "must," whether you're a new reader of Ayn Rand's greatest novel, or whether you're a long-time fan who would like to revisit the special moments that have thrilled millions, and made "Atlas Shrugged" a modern classic. "The World of Atlas Shrugged" provides a summary of the plot, a sketch of the key characters, a biography of author Rand, insightful literary analysis, and an overview of the provocative moral philosophy known as Objectivism. The narration by Edward Herrmann and the additional readings by Lynn Redgrave are masterfully delivered, adding color and drama throughout, as does the compelling musical score. For teachers and students, as well as the general reader, it's a refreshingly original and entertaining alternative to the dry, dull analysis offered in the "Cliffs Notes" sorts of "reader's companions." A first-rate, professional, and provocative recording!

I was wonderfully surprised by this entertaining and informative work. Herrimann does a great job, I'd recommend his reading of both Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead as well. Redgrave also did a fabulous reading. I first heard about this recording at The Atlas Society Homepage ... and I was a bit unsure of it at first. I thought it might be too cheesy, poorly produced or even just inaccurate. But it is perfectly produced, and a worthy companion to Ayn Rand's masterpeice.

This Woman's insight to the human condition put into words feeling I've had for many years. For example; I've never could understand how otherwise rational people could tell me in all honesty that Bill Clinton was a good man. Ayn Rand says in Atlas Shrugged, " People do not believe in the irrational, but they do believe in the unjust." Even if you can't read the book, try this CD for the next long trip in your car.

This was a great addition to the known great works of Ayn Rand! A must have for all Rand fans.

i am still working on the fountainhood tapes by ayn rand and so have not started atlas shrugged but they were a great price and are in perfect physical condition and arrived promptly,jim

I bought this to supplement the novel which I was rereading after 30 years for my book club. This is a good way to tie together what at times is a heavy text--although as I say in my review of the book itself the plot is a real potboiler. I found the tape helpful in understanding Rand's literary technique--in setting up larger than life heroes and impossibly obnoxious villians---a good refresher too if your recollection of the book is hazy. But for a critical analysis of the novel as a work of literature or philosophy, look elsewhere.

Although this CD is not a substitute for the book, it serves as an excellent reminder of Rand's principles - in particular her ethics.

This CD would be useful for the Objectivist that can not reread Rand's book but wants to be able to discuss it in detail again.