Boy Underground by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Boy Underground

An Unlikely Bond in a Turbulent World

Narrated byDan Butler
Length10h38m
Release dateDecember 7, 2021
LanguageEnglish
★★★★☆ 4.6 (2 ratings)

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Quick Facts

AuthorCatherine Ryan Hyde
NarratorDan Butler
Runtime10h38m
PublishedDecember 7, 2021
Rating★★★★☆ 4.6 / 5 (2 ratings)
CategoriesLGBTQ+, Literature & Fiction, Historical Fiction, 20th Century, World War II & Holocaust, World Literature
FormatAudiobook (Digital)
PlatformAudible

About This Audiobook

Catherine Ryan Hyde masterfully weaves a rich historical tapestry that not only showcases her unparalleled ability to craft relatable characters, but also captures the tumultuous atmosphere of 1941 California. Her beautifully nuanced storytelling brings to life the complex relationships between Steven, a young man struggling to come to terms with his own identity, and his closest friends Nick, Suki, and Ollie. As the story unfolds, Hyde skillfully introduces social and cultural tensions that challenge the group's camaraderie, forcing them to confront the harsh realities of their world.

The audiobook, with Dan Butler's smooth narration, immerses listeners in the authentic California landscape. Butler brings a warm, introspective tone to the story, which effectively captures the emotional depth of Hyde's writing. His clear and expressive delivery ensures that listeners stay engaged, even in moments of intense drama, adding a crucial layer of depth to the narrative. By employing an understated yet compelling style, Butler elevates the audiobook experience, turning it into a captivating journey through the past.

Tags: Historical FictionLGBTQ+ FictionCalifornia SettingComing-of-Age StoryFriendship Fiction1940s America

Why Listen to Boy Underground?

  • Expert narration by Dan Butler brings every character and scene to life across 10h38m of immersive audio.
  • Highly rated at 4.6 stars by 2 listeners.
  • Free with your Audible trial — keep the audiobook forever even if you cancel.
  • Perfect for commutes, workouts, and relaxation. Listen anywhere, anytime.
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Editor's Review ★★★★☆

AudioBook Atlas

As an audiobook editor, I was thoroughly absorbed in the world of Boy Underground, and Dan Butler's narration was a significant contributor to this experience. His ability to convey the nuances of Hyde's characters and the historical setting made me feel like I was right there alongside Steven and his friends. What struck me, however, was the delicate balance between the story's lighter moments and the darker themes that Hyde tackles. While the former are engaging and relatable, the latter often feel slightly forced, disrupting the otherwise smooth flow of the narrative. Despite this minor critique, Butler's performance never falters, and he brings a welcome sensitivity to the more challenging scenes. His pacing is well-judged, ensuring that the listener is always engaged, even in the most intense moments. Overall, Boy Underground is a compelling and thought-provoking listen that will resonate with fans of historical fiction and LGBTQ+ storytelling. While it may not be without its flaws, the audiobook's many strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in a well-crafted, emotional journey.

Download: Boy Underground

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Boy Underground by Catherine Ryan Hyde is an immersive listening experience. Performed by Dan Butler with a runtime of 10h38m, you can start with a free trial that you can cancel at any time. The audiobook remains yours forever, even if you end the trial.