This intriguing audiobook looks at how the U.S. has failed to recognize the power of tribalism, the propensity of societies to break down along ethnic, religious, or clan identities, in its foreign policy and its domestic politics. The author prescribes a healthy dose of unity and common purpose as the cure and says that this will not be easy, but it is essential to our survival as a democratic republic. Julia Whelan narrates with seriousness, using a breathy voice and a tone of urgency to keep listeners engaged. Whelan is also remarkably consistent in her approach to this audiobook, but that also means that most of it sounds the same. Nonetheless, she paces herself effectively and pronounces every word with clarity.
Pub Date: 2018
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780525528869
Publisher: Penguin 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:
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:
Duration: 8 hrs
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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