Unlike the authors of most civics texts, Fukuyama examines his subject by looking first at the facts behind the development of various political structures and then assembling the theories that result. Examining civilizations from ancient times to modern, he draws lessons from three types of social order and offers insights for today’s national structures. Narrator Jonathan Davis could hold his own in any college classroom. As he presents the book’s dense discussions, his sharp, clear delivery takes nothing away from Fukuyama’s compelling arguments. As an audiobook, however, the work contains such an overwhelming amount of material that a listener who is not already highly educated in political structures will benefit most by absorbing its offerings in limited segments.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2012
Duration: 22 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: Audible, Inc.
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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