Ideal

The Novel and the Play

By: Ayn Rand

Narrated by: Christopher Lane, Robin Field

Author Ayn Rand's novel Ideal, available for the first time ever - a landmark event for fans of the groundbreaking philosopher.

Originally conceived as a novel but then transformed into a play by Ayn Rand, Ideal is the story of beautiful but tormented actress Kay Gonda. Accused of murder, she is on the run and turns for help to six fans who have written letters to her, each telling her that she represents their ideal - a respectable family man, a far-left activist, a cynical artist, an evangelist, a playboy, and a lost soul. Each reacts to her plight in his own way, providing a glimpse into their secret selves and their true values. In the end their responses to her pleas give Kay the answers she has been seeking.

Ideal was written in 1934 as a novel, but Ayn Rand thought the theme of the piece would be better realized as a play and put the novel aside. Now both versions of Ideal are available for the first time ever to the millions of Ayn Rand fans around the world, giving them a unique opportunity to explore the creative process of Rand as she wrote first a book then a play and the differences between the two.

©1934 Ayn Rand (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

story was good but the second half was pointless

the story of Ideal was actually pretty good I enjoyed it but the second half of this audiobook was simply the reading of the script for the play it wasn't even an audio play it was sort of pointless to listen to it

Budding Rand

What made the experience of listening to Ideal the most enjoyable?

Both the preface to the novel and the preface to the play added much to the listen. It gave a psychological framework that gave greater insight into the work and the writing process. I also really enjoyed the being able to see the edits. The anecdote regarding what sparked the idea for the story also added to the listen.

Any additional comments?

Worth it. I couldn't give it five stars as it is incomplete in a sense. As a fan of her work this did not disappoint.

Not Rands Best, but still a cut above the rest.

If u like rand, worth a listen- great performances by the readers- good theme, great style- but left a bit wanting for something deeper- like her other novels:)

Great short listen

loved this story. it is obviously an early work but to Ayn Rand lovers it shows her unique writing style.

Genius!

It’s Rand….. of course it’s genius! We desperately need Ayn Rand in today’s world. She tried her best to warn us. And despite all her writing and all her lectures. It seems the world is determined to destroy itself. I hear you, Ms Rand!

forward turned me off

they spent 20 minutes talking about Ayan Rand . make an excuse is about this is her first novel and what her mentality in writing it was. totally turn me off I didn't finish it I didn't get after the first chapter the forward ruined it for me