The Pearl and the Onion

De: Brittany K. Allen

Narrado por: Anna Chlumsky, Jasmine Cephas-Jones

This daring historical drama imagines what would have happened if real-life World War II Allied operatives Julia Child and Josephine Baker had teamed up in their fight to take down the Nazis.

When our story begins, Julia Child is an eager but inexperienced codebreaker longing to prove herself in the male-dominated world of intelligence, and Josephine Baker is, well, Josephine Baker—a world-famous entertainer who is now leading a double life as a spy for the French Resistance.

When a golden opportunity arises to infiltrate a high-stakes Nazi gala in Vichy France, Julia must put aside her by-the-book mentality to assist her unorthodox new partner. What begins as a rookie assignment becomes a dangerous game of deception and intrigue, thrusting the duo into the dark underworld of collaborators and double agents.

Blending rich historical details with crackling dialogue, The Pearl and the Onion is an unmissable portrait of courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of resistance in the face of evil. Its inspiring heroes, thrilling missions, and immersive soundscapes will transport you to the heart of the international struggle for freedom in 1940s Europe, painting a vital portrait of how the iconic chef and the international entertainer risked everything in service of a better world. Starring Anna Chlumsky and Jasmine Cephas Jones. Directed by Kimberly Senior.

©2024 Fresh Produce Media, LLC (P)2025 Audible Originals, LLC

Fun Story

Overall this was a fun listen. It was definitely over the top, but had funny scenes.

Fantastic!

A wonderful story to ponder figures from history amidst strife. We can imagine a way to be brave today

Fanciful, but entertaining

Julia’s husband to be is played as stereotypically gay, though he was probably straight since they apparently went on to enjoy a long and happy marriage.
Segregation might have been enforced even abroad during World War Two in the armed forces. Not sure how that would have affected Josephine. The story is almost entirely fictional though.

Delightful entertainment!

I wasn't expecting the dramatization, but it was well done, and the energy of the performers kept it alive and fun to listen to!

Cute “What if?”

Of course you’ll know that this is fiction from the start. But it is a cute little what if story. Well told, well acted.

Worth the listen

The premise is interesting and most of the acting is good. Julia’s voice is a challenge to listen to for that long especially when she’s making privileged white woman mistakes. But I suppose that’s sort of the point.

Fun listen

Such a great presentation! Love the character voices & storyline. Seems plausible as a history story. highly recommend

Excellent

Enjoyed every minute. Nothing was lacking. Creative and very entertaining! Loved it! I can listen to it again!!

Lively fun.

Love the alternate back story. Two greats. The sublime Josephine Baker and the tenacious Julia. Highly recommend.

Nice escape on the drive home!

This was a fun, entertaining listen on several trips home from work in the crowded streets of LA. This audible actually made the drive a breeze. The acting performances by the whole cast were great, and the leads, Anna Chlumsky and Jasmine Cephas-Jones, nailed those 1940 era, French/American accents. Brava!