Free Audiobook : A Swim in a Pond in the Rain, by George Saunders

Ever wondered what makes a story stick with you long after it’s over? In A Swim in a Pond in the Rain, George Saunders, the Booker Prize-winning genius behind Lincoln in the Bardo, invites you into his Syracuse University classroom for a front-row seat to the magic of storytelling. For two decades, he’s taught seven classic Russian short stories by Chekhov, Tolstoy, Turgenev, and Gogol, and now he’s sharing the lessons that have sparked countless “aha” moments. This audiobook isn’t just about writing; it’s about cracking open the human experience through fiction, asking big questions like what truth is and how we live well.

With Saunders narrating alongside heavyweights like Glenn Close, Nick Offerman, and Phylicia Rashad, the stories leap to life, each actor bringing a distinct flavor to the Russian masters’ quirky, soulful tales. Saunders’ essays, delivered in his warm, witty voice, feel like a chat with a brilliant friend who loves stories as much as you do. He pulls back the curtain on why a line hooks you or why a character feels so real, blending humor with deep dives into craft that make you see the world anew.

Whether you’re a writer, a reader, or just curious about why stories matter, A Swim in a Pond in the Rain is a gem. Perfect for fans of On Writing or The Art of Fiction, this audiobook is a lively, thought-provoking journey that’ll have you laughing, pondering, and itching to read more. Pop in your earbuds and let Saunders and his Russian pals show you the power of a good story.