A senior fellow at the libertarian Cato Institute, Johan Norberg argues that life has evolved to be radically better in every way. With a deliberate pace, Derek Perkins uses modulation in a flawless narration that is serious and informative as well as entertaining. The audiobook details how civilization has made phenomenal progress in freedom, sanitation, income, life expectancy, and the environment. Perkins's minimal yet recognizable British accent gives his narration increased gravity. Norberg credits technology and medical science advancements as major positive factors to consider. Relaxed and yet highly polished, Perkins's performance will likely convince even the most casually pessimistic listener that globalization and the rise of free economic markets have dramatically improved daily life and its future potential.
Pub Date: July 1, 2017
Duration: 7 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781538436097
Publisher: Blackstone 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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