The A to Z of Spanish Culture

By: Pilar Orti

Narrated by: Pilar Orti

Length: 3 hrs and 16 mins

Publisher's summary

The A to Z of Spanish Culture reflects Spain as seen through the eyes of its author: a Spaniard who grew up in Madrid in the ‘80s and now keeps a close eye on the country from her London home. Presented in an informal style, each chapter addresses an aspect of Spanish culture: its society, traditions, history, gastronomy, art, and language.

From grape-eating on New Year's Eve to the re-enactment of 13th century battles; from the failed military coup in the 80's to the recent fall from grace of the King; from the origin of the fideúa (the pasta-based version of paella) to the origin of the popular tapas, The A to Z of Spanish Culture will get you closer to Spain today.

This audiobook is narrated by the author, Pilar Orti, who also hosts the podcast Spain Uncovered.

Please note: This audiobook does not contain the chapters Vocabulary, From the Horses' Mouths and Blogs, Books and Bites, which can be found in the Kindle and print versions.

©2012 Pilar Orti (P)2014 Pilar Orti

A primer in Spanish culture

Where does The A to Z of Spanish Culture rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

I really enjoyed this audiobook! As a California resident, many of my neighbors and friends are Spanish-speakers. Yeah, I know, they aren't (for the most part) Spaniards, but they DO share the same language! I was interested in this audiobook because I wanted to know more about the history and culture of the people who've had such a great influence on the neighbors and friends I am so fond of. I also am aware that my knowledge of history is very Anglo-centric-so I'm making an effort to expand my knowledge of a place and people that have had such a powerful impact on world history.

At any rate, this audiobook taught me a lot about Spanish culture in an interesting and engaging manner. Whether you're learning about Spanish royalty or the ñ or tapas or the Moors, this book will give you a nice overview of Spain and its people!

Any additional comments?

I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review.

Spain, here I come!

This audiobook was provided by the author free of charge in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast. com.

This book was like getting a personal guided tour of España from a friend. It is a down-to-Earth look at life and the factors that shaped a unique culture through the eyes of a native. Part history, part cultural overview, all entertaining!

Torquemada doesn't live here anymore

I love books narrated by the author!
The Publisher's summary is indicative of the material, but not the tone. It is readily apparent that Pilar had great fun while compiling this book.
If defined as a historical, sociological, and gastronomical investigation, few would bother to read it. Yet it is all that and so much more. Like: Did you know that there is a Guggenheim museum in Spain? Are you aware of how very different the different regions are in terrain/temperature/dietary delights/artistry? Have you thought about the workday schedule or management of Holidays? Have you truly listened to a person from Spain, or do you think that Mexican or Puerto Rican Spanish is the only manner of pronunciation and word choices? Listen to the author and you will get a clue.
Whether you are planning to visit, or simply love armchair travelling, this book combines information with fun and a love of the land and it's people and presents it in a manner which is familiar yet unique. Sit back or clean the kitchen or workout and enjoy!
This book was a gift courtesy of AudioBook Blast

Hola! Como estas? Good!

The A to Z of Spanish Culture is a cute book. Nothing more, but nothing less! Pilar Orti gives us a look in to Spain, and i like it! 3 hrs and 16 mins is a bit on the short side of what i like in a book that is going to talk about the A to Z things in Spain, but the letters are nice chapters! "This audiobook does not contain the chapters Vocabulary, From the Horses' Mouths and Blogs, Books and Bites" it says, and i know i should not complain, but i miss that MORE then i was expecting! Each chapter is brief, a bit to brief for my taste, i wish there where more book in my book

Pilar Orti is reading her own book! YEY, great who else could do it as good as her? I know who! No one, that is who! Pilar Orti is a greit narrator, and i know she lived in England a looooong time, but i love her Spanish lille touch of a ascent! It helps a lot in a book about Spain that you hear someone that is Spanish! So i do recommend this, if only for hearing Pilar Orti talk!

I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast dot com

Almost feels like a visit

I've been to Spain 3 times in the past 4 years and always soak up as much culture and history as I can. This book, in some ways, takes me back again and feels like another trip (taking tours, talking to locals, etc). I'll listen again before my next visit!

This audiobook was provided by the author free of charge in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBlast. com.