Perry’s book examines the notorious female criminals in 1920s Chicago whose stories lie behind the musical of that name, as well as the women reporters who covered their exploits. Peter Berkrot’s narration matches the lurid topic and equally lurid writing with an affectedly snide tone, as if he’s taking on the book’s cynicism. But the affectation puts one off rather than engages, and it accentuates his nasal tone. The voices he supplies for quotations, frequently female, while not always convincing, do help differentiate the speakers and give them some life. But Berkrot’s reading is fundamentally clear, well paced, and sensitive to the text, and those qualities, plus the remarkable period, carry the listener through.
Pub Date: Aug. 5, 2010
Duration: 10 hrs, 30 mins
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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