The Rainbow Comes and Goes Audiobook By Anderson Cooper cover art

The Rainbow Comes and Goes

A Mother and Son on Life, Love, and Loss

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The Rainbow Comes and Goes

By: Anderson Cooper
Narrated by: Anderson Cooper, Gloria Vanderbilt
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A touching and intimate correspondence between Anderson Cooper and his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, offering timeless wisdom and a revealing glimpse into their lives.

Though Anderson Cooper has always considered himself close to his mother, his intensely busy career as a journalist for CNN and CBS affords him little time to spend with her. After she suffers a brief but serious illness at the age of ninety-one, they resolve to change their relationship by beginning a yearlong conversation unlike any they have ever had before. The result is a correspondence of surprising honesty and depth in which they discuss their lives, the things that matter to them, and what they still want to learn about each other.

Both a son's love letter to his mother and an unconventional mom's life lessons for her grown son, The Rainbow Comes and Goes offers a rare window into their close relationship and fascinating life stories, including their tragedies and triumphs. In these often humorous and moving exchanges, they share their most private thoughts and the hard-earned truths they've learned along the way. In their words their distinctive personalities shine through - Anderson's journalistic outlook on the world is a sharp contrast to his mother's idealism and unwavering optimism.

An appealing memoir with inspirational advice, The Rainbow Comes and Goes is a beautiful and affectionate celebration of the universal bond between a parent and a child and a thoughtful reflection on life, reminding us of the precious insight that remains to be shared, no matter our age.

©2016 Anderson Cooper (P)2016 HarperCollins Publishers
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Critic reviews

"A CNN and CBS journalist, Cooper has a highly recognizable vocal quality, and his narrative tone is thoughtful, distinctive, and pleasant. His delivery is especially adept in the difficult passages addressing the early death of his father and, later, the suicide of his older brother, Carter. Vanderbilt's skillful, forceful, and distinct narration is remarkable for her 91 years.... This is a moving listening experience." ( AudioFile)

Featured Article: The top 100 celebrity memoirs of all time


The best celebrity memoir audiobooks are in a league of their own—there is no greater listening experience than a memoir performed by the celebrity behind the title. Their charisma and authenticity greatly enhance the experience, making it all the more engaging. Many listeners who would never think to read a celebrity memoir in print gravitate to the genre in audio. There’s something magical about hearing, in their own voice, the nitty-gritty of a star’s path.

Intimate Correspondence • Candid Revelations • Authentic Narration • Fascinating Life Stories • Healing Conversations

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Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, I would, and have recommended it to many.

What did you like best about this story?

I loved listening to Anderson and his wonderful mother "talk" to each other. I appreciate them allowing me to listen. It was so real and honest.

Absolutely LOVED this book!!

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Hands down, Anderson Cooper and his mother Gloria Vanderbilt, have spun a tale that is beautiful and incredibly intimate. I can relate to both so well it is amazing! What I learned is this: we are all connected. Different backgrounds aside, everyone can relate on some level and hope is essential to living fully. Thank you both for your unabashed transparency and kindness to be vulnerable with your story.

Best I’ve listened to!

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A worthwhile read for anyone who has had a challenging relationship with a parent. In other words, for the entire global population.

Well worth reading

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Just finished it and I am going to listen to it a second time. One of my all time favorites.

Loved it!

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I enjoyed hearing Anderson and Gloria going back and forth in an interview style conversation.

Loved it!

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