Some really rang true, others did not. ( )

From the popular NPR segment of the same name, this is a well-rounded sampling of the essays aired both from its current incarnation and from the original show around the time I was born, in the early 1950s. This anthology is nothing if not inspiring, and as an added bonus, it’s a very fast read. One is compelled to reflect momentarily on the author’s words and begin anew with the next essay. I will confess that a few of these personal accounts infuriated me, and some I saw more as an attempt to garner political points (you’ll know them when you see them), and I readily admit that it may have not been intended that way, but in my interpretation. Most, however, seemed genuine and forthcoming, and I am inspired to write one of my own. The editors include guidelines as to length and content, and even provide a website for submission. I also appreciated the several pages of black-and-white photos of some of the essayists. I thought it was an added treat to see the faces of those who wrote such thoughtful, deeply-felt, private feelings. This ought to be required reading for anyone, anywhere. ( )

What a great read! It is filled with insightful, thought-provoking essays, some very surprising, such as thoughts on barbecue, jazz, cultivating one's talents, feeding monkeys, being cool to the pizza dude and leaving flowers on graves. I listened to this book and found that some of the older essays were far too formal to enjoy. That formality is off-putting and stuffy. I also found that many of the essays by well-known people were seemingly contrived. John McCain's essay on service to one's country and Newt Gingrich's essay on the importance of American leadership fell flat, but Gloria Steinham's amazing thoughts on the nature vs. nurture debate opened new doors for me. I think everyone will find one point of view that challenges his or her own beliefs and provokes further contemplation, something we don't seem to do enough without external provocation. ( )

I really wish I had listened to this in smaller chunks. It's a lot to take in. Some of the essays were not exceptional, but others were absolutely wonderful. Topics ranged from the rule of law, love, and freedom to barbecue and jazz. And listening to this collection, rather than reading it, really does add a lot to the experience. Not to mention the opportunity to hear such voices as Helen Keller, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Jackie Robinson. ( )

I believe in this series. It is fascinating and moving reading about people's beliefs and the events that shaped them. While the essay format is short, just a few hundred words, it forces the writer to get right to the core of their beliefs. From the famous to the person on the street, the series gives everyone the opportunity to express themselves. I feel like my own horizon is broadened by sharing in their stories.

I love listening to the series on NPR, but I don't think it loses power in the written form. It is just different. Reading the book puts more emphasis and interpretation in the choice of words to convey the meaning, rather than relying on the tone of voice of the author. I cried again at the essay from the woman who believes all the graves in the cemetary should have flowers. Just as I did when I first heard it on the radio. ( )