Colley leads the way into a nightmarish world

Keeble's powerful narration brings Colley's excellent writing to life in this riveting exploration of Soviet Russia's greatest test. The hardships are brutally described and the suffering fully explained, with the fervor and burning loyalty of the party conveyed in full colour to contrast with the irrefutable inhumanity of the siege. A riveting hour, well worth the investment.

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Terrifying...

No better story than a real-life story. Well written, well performed, very graphic and gripping. Good piece of history in a very short - perfect introductory for further study.

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If you ever feel you had it rough...

Would you listen to The Siege of Leningrad: History in an Hour again? Why?

Yes, I would listen to this again. One reason is general: remembering details from audio books is more difficult that reading and so revisiting can be very helpful for remembering dates, names etc. The other is more specific: despite the harrowing events visited upon the citizens of Leningrad, reports of their stoicism are heart-warming. It makes you wonder how you'd bear up under similar conditions.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Siege of Leningrad: History in an Hour?

Reports of the often unceremonious disposal of the remains of loved ones and, more alarmingly reports of cannibalism due to hunger really stuck out. Without ever having suffered such hardship, one shouldn't rush to judgement.

Which character – as performed by Jonathan Keeble – was your favourite?

Being a history book, the word 'character' does not mean the same as in, say, novels. Dmitri Shostakovich, who wrote the Leningrad Symphony certainly stands out. Many others also stand out for less honourable features such as incompetence and cruelty.

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

...in war, don't expect help to arrive any day soon...

Any additional comments?

I find Jonathan Keeble a very suitable narrator for such historical books as this. He brings a necessary gravitas to the project.

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The resilience of a city

I knew virtually nothing about the siege of Leningrad before listening to this and I'm left with a view that encompasses the best and worst of humanity. What the people endured is beyond my understanding and the lengths they had to go to in order to survive fill me with horror. However, the strength and spirit they showed in order to pull themselves back at the first glimmer of hope was utterly remarkable and has my deepest respect. It's a tragedy that, after all they endured, they had to survive Stalin in the aftermath.

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Salutary and succinct

Would you consider the audio edition of The Siege of Leningrad: History in an Hour to be better than the print version?

I've not had the option of reading the print version. but the audio edition allowed me to relax and learn at the same time.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

Well, I knew what would happen? It was history, after all.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, I did listen to it in one sitting.

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