HOW TO SURVIVE A PLAGUE tackles the enormous task of chronicling the fight against the AIDS epidemic. David France's voluminous work details the stories of so many people, including victims, advocates, and scientists. Trying to absorb so much information could be daunting, but Rory O'Malley's narration will help the listener along. His steady delivery brings each piece of the story into focus. When describing both the scientific means of discovering and studying the virus as well as the emotional trials of those who contracted it, O'Malley's even pacing and tone give a sense of the pathos of events. Part history, part science, and part storytelling, this aptly titled book reveals how a community, though devastated, survived a plague.
Pub Date: Nov. 29, 2016
Duration: 24 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781524708122
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Narrator George Newbern's warm, conversational tone reflects the author's empathy for fellow headache sufferers. Tom Zeller Jr. argues that the headache is a common yet misunderstood malady that doesn't get enough funding for medical research. Often, it isn't taken seriously--as shown in the common expression "just a headache." Newbern is patient, and his phrasing is always excellent, so when Zeller delves into the science, the lay listener is engaged and swept along. The descriptions of Zeller's debilitating cluster headaches sound absolutely miserable, making his occasional desperate forays into psychedelic mushrooms and shady doctors seem entirely reasonable. Next time someone says they have a headache, you might be a bit more patient--and that seems like a positive outcome.
Pub Date: July 15, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063442306
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Journalist Amy Larocca narrates with quick pacing that works well with this fast-moving kaleidoscope of observations and insights about today's self-care craze. Her performance has a street-smart quality that's not inappropriate, given the aggressive marketing and snake-oil claims proffered by today's health and beauty marketers. The pervasiveness of ads, images, and expert opinions has supported sexist cultural norms while it pushes cures and procedures of dubious value. Larocca sympathizes with consumers who are bombarded with unrealistic ideals for how they should think about their appearance and health. Her journalistic skill is on full display as she explains what science says about these products and procedures. Her excellent research and cultural savvy will make listeners more discerning about what's essential for good health.
Pub Date: May 13, 2025
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217013388
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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