Thunderstruck

Wireless Wonders: Erik Larson’s Electric Thriller

Written byErik Larson

Narrated byBob Balaban

Length11h56m

Release dateOctober 24, 2006

GenreBiographies & Memoirs, Professionals & Academics, Science & Technology

Languageenglish

★★★★★ 4.1 (33 ratings)

Listen Free on Audible

Free with Audible trial. Cancel anytime.

Listen to a Sample

Hear Bob Balaban's narration on Audible.

Play Sample on Audible

Quick Facts

Author	Erik Larson
Narrator	Bob Balaban
Runtime	11h56m
Published	October 24, 2006
Rating	★★★★★ 4.1 / 5 (33 ratings)
Categories	Biographies & Memoirs, Professionals & Academics, Science & Technology, True Crime, Murder, Computers & Technology, History & Culture, History, Modern, 20th Century
Format	Audiobook (Digital)
Platform	Audible

Featured Audiobooks

Handpicked listeners' favorites this week

Quicksilver

by Callie Hart

★★★★☆ 4.8

The Let Them Theory

by Mel Robbins

★★★★☆ 4.7

Into the Blue: Reese's Book Club

by Emma Brodie

★★★★☆ 4.8

Tower of Dawn

by Sarah J. Maas

★★★★☆ 4.8

About This Audiobook

Thunderstruck by Erik Larson is a captivating tale of innovation, romance, and the dawn of wireless technology that forever changed communication. The audiobook offers a compelling narrative of Reginald Fessenden, a visionary inventor who created the first live broadcast of music over radio waves in 1906. With narration by Bob Balaban, the audio experience is as dynamic as the subject matter itself. Balaban’s rich and nuanced voice brings to life the intricate details of early wireless communication, making for an engaging listen.

Tags: wireless technologyinnovation historybiography audioscientific explorationhistorical drama

Why Listen to Thunderstruck?

Expert narration by Bob Balaban brings every character and scene to life across 11h56m of immersive audio.
Bestseller-quality story from Erik Larson, rated 4.1 stars by 33 listeners.
Free with your Audible trial — keep the audiobook forever even if you cancel.
Perfect for commutes, workouts, and relaxation. Listen anywhere, anytime.

Start Listening Free

Editor's Review ★★★★★

AudioBook Atlas

Bob Balaban's performance in Thunderstruck is nothing short of stellar, delivering a vivid portrayal that perfectly complements Erik Larson’s meticulous storytelling. The narrative takes listeners through the technical challenges and human drama surrounding Fessenden’s groundbreaking work, maintaining a steady pace while still weaving in personal anecdotes. However, the pacing can feel slightly rushed at times, especially during dense scientific explanations. Despite this minor quibble, the overall production is top-notch, making this audiobook an essential listen for anyone interested in the history of technology and human ingenuity.

Download: Thunderstruck

Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Free Download on Audible USA

Thunderstruck by Erik Larson is an immersive listening experience. Performed by Bob Balaban with a runtime of 11h56m, 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.