The story of opium is a long one, and narrator Peter Ganim tells it in a deep, clear voice that will keep listeners as enthralled as if this history were a novel. It starts with archaeological finds that confirm that opium has been around since antiquity. From there, listeners tour ancient Egypt, ride with Marco Polo, and follow the money through the English and Portuguese colonial empires to the modern world. Ganim captures the authors' sarcastic wit as he narrates examples of reformers' "fire and brimstone" attitudes and shows the historical cycles of "the war on drugs." Authors Halpern and Blistein say there are no easy answers, and their detailed overview fascinates as they build their case.
Pub Date: Aug. 13, 2019
Duration: 8 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781549175329
Publisher: Hachette 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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