Here’s an interesting audiobook by an author who is not usually mentioned when the subject is race relations in America. From this point on, he should be. Abdul-Jabbar traveled the country as a basketball star, and his experiences then, and in his active next life, inform this work. He writes thoughtfully but forcefully, and he deserves to be heard. Narrator Ben Adduchio doesn’t quite match the author’s passion and tone, reading with a rather plain, mild voice. He pronounces every word, but it sounds like he’s, well, reading the book, rather than interpreting and expanding its message. Abdul-Jabbar’s message does get through, but Adduchio could have been more emotive in his delivery.
Pub Date: Oct. 4, 2016
Duration: 8 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781478945987
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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