Listen closely and you can discern what makes Gabra Zackman such an accomplished audiobook narrator. Historian Hoganson uses her adopted home of Champaign, Illinois, to make her case that the Midwest has had a long historic relationship with the needs of foreign powers--especially Britain. From land ownership to hog species, the author shows just how important these needs were to the heartland of our nation. Zackman subtly shifts cadence and tone when the text switches from the author's voice to historic news clips. Here Zackman's reading is more fast paced. The news items add color to this work of revisionist history. As Zachman's steady yet nuanced delivery propels the myth-busting forward, her subtle narration benefits both writer and listener.
Pub Date: April 23, 2019
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781984838971
Publisher: Penguin 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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