It only takes a little bit of emphasis for narrator Kristen Scott Thomas to hit home the death tolls around the world from COVID-19 and the failures of the United States in fighting the pandemic. THE ECONOMIST'S John Micklethwait and Adrian Wooldridge explain that these pandemic failures have shown the weaknesses of government. By the end of the first chapter, listeners will be itching to hear their ideas for improving government. First, the authors outline philosophy about government and the history of its growth. Thomas sometimes takes a critical tone but delivers the background in a straightforward way. They point out the successes of "Asian Tigers," particularly Singapore, and create what they believe to be an ideal platform for a fictional U.S. president.
Pub Date: Sept. 15, 2020
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063065321
Publisher: Harper 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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