News Summary
A selection of new audiobooks shines a light on the history of the Katharine Gibbs Schools, highlighting their influence on women’s education and providing engaging stories from various genres. Notable titles include ‘Expect Great Things!’, ‘The Commuter’, ‘Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping on a Dead Man’, and ‘When the Moon Hits Your Eye’, each offering unique narratives while remembering the school’s pivotal role in empowering women throughout its history.
Providence, Rhode Island – The release of a series of new audiobooks highlights the legacy of the Katharine Gibbs Schools while offering a blend of intriguing mysteries and comedic storytelling. Among the notable titles reviewed for the month are “Expect Great Things!”, “The Commuter”, “Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping on a Dead Man”, and “When the Moon Hits Your Eye”. These audiobooks provide entertainment while shedding light on the historical significance of one of America’s renowned educational institutions for women.
“Expect Great Things!” by Vanda Krefft, narrated by Eliza Foss, explores the history and impact of the Katharine Gibbs Schools that began in 1909 in Providence, Rhode Island. The school was more than just a secretarial training center; it inspired a generation of women, known as “Katie Gibbs girls”, who went on to carve meaningful careers in various fields. The school expanded dramatically following Krefft’s acquisition, ultimately establishing 11 branches across the country before closing in 2011.
Katharine Gibbs herself faced significant personal challenges, including a tragic childhood and the death of her husband, which influenced her dedication to championing women’s self-reliance. Under her leadership, the school’s reputation grew, providing women with training that led many to prominent careers. Among its notable graduates are influential figures, such as a biographer of Woodrow Wilson, the first leader of the Marine Corps’ women’s division, several bestselling authors, and actress Loretta Swit. However, as societal attitudes changed in the 1970s towards women’s roles and career aspirations, the demand for secretarial training diminished, which ultimately led to the school’s decline and eventual closure.
The narration of “Expect Great Things!” has received accolades for its warmth and engaging storytelling, successfully bringing to life the experiences of the Gibbs Girls during a pivotal time in American history.
In contrast, “The Commuter,” co-authored by James Patterson and Aaron Tracy, offers a thrilling yet concise listening experience. This audiobook, featuring a full cast including Lizzy Caplan and Richard Schiff, runs for just 1 ½ hours and is priced at $11.20, with availability through an Audible Plus membership. The narrative follows Amy Nichols, a disgraced ex-FBI agent who becomes embroiled in a murder plot she accidentally overhears on her daily train commute. The unfolding twists challenge her credibility, providing a fast-paced and engaging storyline that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
Another notable title, “Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping on a Dead Man” by Jesse Q. Sutanto, narrated by Eunice Wong, is a sequel that lasts 10 ½ hours and is priced at $22. The story follows Vera Wong, an elderly woman who investigates a mysterious death tied to a missing person, featuring a vibrant cast of characters. The humor and intelligence of Vera’s character shine through, particularly in Wong’s successful narration that captures her humorous and maternal essence.
Additionally, “When the Moon Hits Your Eye” by John Scalzi, read by Wil Wheaton, is a whimsical exploration of a world where the moon is transformed into cheese, resulting in a global fallout. This 10-hour audiobook is priced at $29.66 or can be purchased with one credit through an Audible membership. Wheaton’s enthusiastic narration effectively enhances the comedic elements of Scalzi’s story, making it an entertaining listen for those who enjoy light-hearted fiction.
Alan Rosenberg, a retired executive editor with two decades of audiobook reviewing experience, notes the cultural and historical significance of the Katharine Gibbs Schools, and how these new audiobooks reflect a value for storytelling. In this month’s lineup, listeners can not only enjoy diverse genres but are also reminded of the foundational role the Gibbs Schools played in empowering women throughout history.
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Additional Resources
- Valley Breeze: Audiobooks from a Providence Secretarial School
- Wikipedia: Katharine Gibbs School
- Legacy: Linda Abrams Obituary
- Google Search: Katharine Gibbs Schools
- Legacy: Eileen Sten Obituary
- Google Scholar: Women’s Education History
- Legacy: Linda Abrams Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Katharine Gibbs
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
