This incisive broadside against the ubiquitous American narrative that anyone can be successful if they work hard enough could not have found a better narrator than Beth Hicks. The author's writing tone is indignant and unsparing in its takedown of the self-sufficiency myth, a tone that Hicks's performance renders with finesse. Her delivery expresses author Alissa Quart's complaints with the same authority and determination found in her excellent reporting; Hicks never lets her delivery sound shrill or snarky. This well-documented audiobook looks at how culture, the media, and politicians use the romantic ideal of individual determination to shame people who are disadvantaged by systemic obstacles, and to relieve the ruling class from the obligation to level the playing field with robust social programs.
Pub Date: March 14, 2023
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063028043
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
A must-listen capturing the current labor crisis and the rapidly changing demographic makeup of those who seek to unionize.
André Santana's performance succinctly conveys the spirit of this audiobook about modern-day organizing and unionizing. Listeners experience a boots-on-the-ground view via firsthand accounts from employees depicting their shared struggle at several globally recognized companies. The staffers represent the modern face of employment: college-educated baristas, technology representatives, and video game designers, all carrying heavy loads of college debt. Meanwhile, they face dwindling commitment from their employers who, more and more, communicate to workers that what they do has no value. Santana's voice embodies the anger and desire for change that motivates workers to come together. Listeners interested in the rise of powerhouse corporate brands like Starbucks and Apple shouldn't miss this audiobook.
A must-listen capturing the current labor crisis and the rapidly changing demographic makeup of those who seek to unionize.Pub Date: April 7, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 18 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250436139
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: April 21, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2026
Through Carr’s performance, listeners get a tangible sense of recent events and the people involved.
Kris Carr’s focused narration pairs well with the author’s Agatha Christie-inspired “murder mystery” investigation into the repeal of Roe v. Wade, the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark 1973 decision on the constitutional right to abortion. Assembled are suspects and accomplices, including people across the political and ideological spectrum; key witnesses; and victims, particularly Rosie Jimenez and Becky Bell. Carr’s deft characterizations animate the real-life individuals behind key legislation and activist movements. Carr further strengthens the mystery framework with a British accent for Christie quotations. This engrossing production takes listeners beyond the 2022 repeal of Roe, detailing actions by true believers, political opportunists, and well-intentioned abortion-rights supporters that led to its demise.
Through Carr’s performance, listeners get a tangible sense of recent events and the people involved.Pub Date: March 10, 2026
Duration: 9 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668654194
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: July 7, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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