This is a timely group biography of immigrant Franz Boas, a professor in Columbia University's first anthropology department, and his circle of "misfits and dissenters," which included Margaret Mead, Ruth Benedict, Zora Neale Hurston, and others. Narrator January LaVoy, who is equally adept at narrating thrillers and historical nonfiction, brings out the humanity in these scholars, showing how their experiences in the field, and in life, influenced their research. It's no coincidence that each, an outsider in some way, felt less beholden to the status quo. The result was a new theory of cultural relativism, with common humanity, rather than race or culture, as the glue between peoples. Listeners will be fascinated to hear these stories, and moved by the courage that this band of explorers displayed.
Pub Date: 2019
Duration: 13 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780593146729
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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