Patrick Lawlor’s gruff tones and energetic pace prove to be a perfect match for an author who is a curmudgeonly comedic contrarian. Owen argues that our efforts to live in a more eco-friendly and efficient manner work at cross-purposes to the true goal of living sustainably. If traveling were comfortable and inexpensive, then we would likely travel more. He argues that, unlike the Toyota Prius, a “green” car would probably have no heater or radio, unpadded seats, a top speed of 25 mph, and lousy gas mileage, all of which would make us drive less. Similarly, energy needs to cost more so that we will use less. Lawlor translates the snarky sarcasm and creates distinctive accents to keep our attention focused as Owen forces a re-examination of the behaviors we think are responsible.
Pub Date: March 26, 2012
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Tantor Media
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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