Author Gretchen Peters's 10 years of on-the-ground research and immersion in the cultures of Afghanistan and Pakistan are evident in her depth of knowledge regarding the Taliban and its developing interconnections with Al Qaeda. Both are experiencing a strong and sinister resurgence based less on religion and ideology than on the huge profits of the heroin trade. Narrator Laural Merlington is a particularly apt choice. Her mature, steady voice is totally credible as she presents the straightforward and detailed picture Peters creates. The author’s clear writing, coupled with Merlington's clear delivery, allows the listener to absorb the complexities and implications of an emerging narco-state that is aligned with a terrorist movement. This is a particularly timely text, well written and well presented, fascinating and frightening—a definite must-read.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2009
Duration: 8 hrs
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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