Anne Applebaum's matter-of-fact tone and knowledgeable delivery make this an informative listen. Applebaum draws in listeners by beginning with a personal story that sets a conversational tone. She describes a New Year's Eve party in December 1999 and quickly describes the remarkable shift in relationships--personal and political--that have occurred since. Using Poland as a starting point, Applebaum meticulously explains the rise of authoritarianism and nationalism and the ways that it has impacted the U.S. and Europe--historically and in the present day. Most importantly, Applebaum infuses a sense of urgency into her delivery as she illustrates the importance of recognizing the fragility of democracy and the ways that history can repeat itself to the detriment of society.
Pub Date: July 21, 2020
Duration: 5 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593212585
Publisher: Random House 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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