Partanen, a new American from Finland, argues that achieving the American dream of freedom and upward mobility is now more likely in Scandinavia than in the U.S. Narrator Abby Craden proves an energetic and compelling guide as the author explodes myths of the high-tax and socialist north, using research and personal stories. Partanen argues that government supports freedom rather than compromising it. Average Scandinavian and American citizens pay a similar proportion of income taxes, but Scandinavians receive health care, affordable child care, parental leave, and excellent public education, thus reducing dependence on families, employers, and government. While some of the voices Craden employs fall wide of the mark--a minor quibble--she successfully distinguishes direct quotations by deepening her voice or adopting an accent.
Pub Date: June 28, 2016
Duration: 10 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780062643186
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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