"In England There Was Such a Man"

The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill, Volume I: Visions of Glory 1874-1932

by William Manchester

Narrated by Frederick Davidson

You know that you are in for a long effort when the title is that long; fortunately this is a great book that will keep any listener, with even a modicum of interest in the grand designs of history, enthralled. Winston Churchill was such an important historical figure that any account of his exploits must, necessarily, seem to be larger-than-life. This first volume is an anecdote-filled story that has the plotting of a novel taking Winston from early childhood to influential member of the government. It is the most playful of the three volumes of this biography and as such is great fun. William Manchester’s mastery of the English language is evident on every page. 

The narration by Frederick Davidson is astounding. His voice has great expressiveness and emotion. The effect is like a one man play. Each character is given their own unique voice, and they are spot-on. Frederick Davidson portrays the young Winston with eagerness and sincerity and gives just the right inflection for a young insecure school-boy. Later, when Davidson speaks the words of Winston as a mature man, you hear Churchill as you might imagine him delivering one of his famous invective barbs. Davidson deserves top marks for his rendition of this book from print to voice.