Though Brooks, a NEW YORK TIMES columnist, is a frequent television commentator, this audiobook is narrated by Arthur Morey. But it seems as if Brooks is talking directly to the listener. Since this is an intimate work about finding life's meaning that relies heavily on research and quotes from philosophers and writers, that conversational tone is critical to the audiobook's impact. There is much to admire in the author's thesis that happiness is not as rewarding as the joy that a life of service brings. The audiobook provokes the listener to think about a range of subjects and offers prescriptive advice on how to achieve personal growth through social responsibility. For those who are questing, Brooks and Morey offer a pathway to the purpose-driven life.
Pub Date: April 16, 2019
Duration: 13 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781984840776
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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