As David Runciman narrates his work on the status of democracy, his voice is affable and calming, even when his words inspire the opposite response. Runciman considers our current political climate to be one in which we are still functioning as a working democracy that is withstanding the rise of autocratic rule. However, he argues, we would do well to acknowledge history. Listeners are given examples of political uprisings, including various forms of a coups d'état. Listeners are encouraged to consider the ability of technology to infiltrate the masses and what it means when democracy "works." Runciman is a professor of politics and a podcast host; his skill in both these vocations is on full display in this absorbing, if disconcerting, audiobook.
Pub Date: July 24, 2018
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781549169182
Publisher: Hachette 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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