Rafe Beckley's calm, determined narration serves as a counterpoint to the alarming and urgent message conveyed in this audiobook, namely that an existential disaster may await those who toy with superhuman intelligence. The challenge facing humanity is that an AI machine's goals may deviate from our values, potentially leading to self-evolving systems that revise resource allocation, dismantle financial systems, and disrupt government networks. If intelligence is what gives humans an advantage, a greater AI intelligence would likely end it. The authors' conclusions may seem severe, and their proposed solutions-- for example, global AI cooperation--seem unlikely. But their use of history, parables, and examples has resulted in a convincing and often entertaining introduction to AI.
Pub Date: Sept. 16, 2025
Duration: 6 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668652657
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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