History's dictators have all had unique characters, but many of them followed similar patterns as they rose to power as populists and ultimately became despots. In this concise and thoughtful work, MacLeod Andrews's narration is an ideal complement to the writing: His pace is just slow enough to allow the arguments to sink in but brisk enough to avoid a lecturing tone. Stanley's writing is remarkably clear and free of jargon, more journalistic than academic. He outlines a series of strategies that fascist leaders have typically used, including creating a mythic past, scorning intellectuals, and elevating some groups over others. Then he offers telling examples of how our current POTUS has used each one.
Pub Date: Sept. 4, 2018
Duration: 5 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780525640837
Publisher: Random House 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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