Think 26.2 miles is a long run? Not even close. McDougall's book traces the spirit of “ultra-runners,” the world’s greatest distance runners, whose runs take them on personal and physical journeys much more demanding than mere marathons. Focusing on a small, quiet tribe of Mexicans and a handful of assorted Americans, the book explores the question of why people run. Narrator Fred Sanders keeps the pace and maintains a steady enthusiasm as he tells of runners' personalities, diets, and team-oriented competitiveness. Like a well-conditioned runner, nothing in the book is wasted—even parts about the genesis and science of running are fascinating. Sanders never tires while describing humans’ innate ability to run. Non-runners will gain an insight from this compelling read, runners will love it, and ultra-runners? Well, they live it.
Pub Date: May 5, 2009
Duration: 11 hrs
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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