In 1995 the editor-in-chief of the French version of ELLE magazine suffered a debilitating stroke of the brain stem, which left him a paraplegic, able to communicate only by slight facial expressions. Painstakingly, Bauby dictated this journal--one letter at a time--of what it's like to have "locked-in syndrome." As eloquent as Bauby's phrases is Rene Auberjonois's performance of them. The slightest tinge of a French accent brings to life the author's lyrical language now made silent by a freak tragedy. Auberjonois also relays Bauby's somber emotions and memories, switching tone effortlessly to express the witty anecdotal reflections that make this an inspiring audio production.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1997
Duration: 2 hrs, 12 mins
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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