Derek Perkins gives a flawless performance in this fascinating examination of global topophilia (a sense of place) and biophilia (the bond between human beings and other living systems). Perkins’s articulate and unrushed narration allows the listener to assimilate the plethora of geographical, political, cultural, and historical facts offered in this study of 47 extraordinary, and mostly unknown, locations. Perkins’s credible command of numerous accents, in addition to deft modulations to introduce each new location and bring out various local voices, keeps many parts of the book, with their extensive information, from being too dry. While all these aspects of his narration are engaging, it’s Perkins’s warmth that truly reveals his understanding of the book and that effectively conveys its message about the significance of place.
Pub Date: Sept. 30, 2014
Duration: 8 hrs
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Buckley offers a reasonable proposal for a national service program without jail or criminal penalties. Narrator Lawrence reads with a slow and careful announcer's voice; one wishes Buckley were reading this one himself. Books on Tape does its usual quality job with formatting, packaging and tape-turning instructions. The reader repeats the last sentence at such times, so you're sure you haven't missed anything. Popular nonfiction collections will appreciate Gratitude, and the topic is likely to prove timely in the years ahead.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 5 hrs
Publisher: Books on Tape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Kozol’s shocking exposé of inequities in the funding of our public schools contrasts white suburban schools with those serving black and Hispanic populations. Interviews with students, teachers, and school administrators add eloquent testimony to Kozol’s disturbing presentation of facts. Narration by Jack Winston is clear and brisk, but the pace is unrelenting, with little pause for transition between scenes or chapters. Winston’s cool, detached voice contrasts with Kozol’s impasssioned and outraged message. The sheer repetition and magnitude of Kozol’s damning evidence is numbing; the narration gives no relief. Powerful medicine, most easily taken in small doses. Music signalling tape changes is jarringly inappropriate.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 8 hrs
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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