Narrator Carly Robins takes her tone for much of this narration from the author's anger at the predicament of "the middle precariat," the struggling (often failing) middle class. These are the families who are trying to hold onto jobs, homes, and status in the face of declining salaries, uncertain work, and rising costs. But Robins's pervasive tone of wry cynicism and arch disapproval toward the status quo soon becomes tiresome. Eventually, however, she varies her tone as the book changes focus. From that point, she is admirably clear, energetic, and adept at conveying the emotions behind the issues. Unfortunately, her pronounced lisp is distracting and has to be gotten used to after every break from listening. Still, her expressiveness and deftness in conveying sense overcome the reading's shortcomings and make for a generally positive experience.
Pub Date: June 26, 2018
Duration: 9 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780062847904
Publisher: Harper Audio
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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