The episodic structure of this book and its first-person point of view make it eminently suited for audio. The author recounts his experiences across the globe--from walking a protest line in Moscow to riding a reindeer in Mongolia, getting kidnapped in Ecuador, and lamenting the loss of historic culture in Afghanistan. His eye for detail brings scenes to life. The varied selections, which include published reports dating back to the late 1980s as well as new reflections, make this especially effective for listeners who can't invest long stretches of time. But the author's presentation falls somewhat short of his material. While his diction is clear, his pacing is sometimes too slow to effectively engage listeners. A more animated narrator would have made these essays more lively. Nonetheless, persevering listeners will enjoy these accounts of historic change.
Pub Date: 2016
Duration: 22 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781508222439
Publisher: Simon & Schuster 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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