A detailed exploration of America's health-care system past and present also delivers on its subtitle's promise to explain how the system may be improving under the Affordable Care Act. Much of the labor of convincing is certainly in the text itself, but William Dufris's expert narration makes the argument that much more potent. Dufris nails each paragraph, using just the right rhythm and emphasis to give listeners full access to the author's ideas. Teasing out long and complicated passages, he helps listeners comprehend all the moving parts of a complicated and convoluted system in need of much improvement.
Pub Date: 2015
Duration: 12 hrs
DD ISBN:
Publisher: Tantor Media
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: 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: 2025
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217013388
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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