Paul Hodgson's narration is engrossing, even as he conveys a lot of statistics and scientific information about the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918. The outbreak is believed to have been deadlier than WWI, with more than 50 million deaths. Author Laura Spinney reminds listeners of the forgotten killer and traces epidemics back through history to ancient Iraq and Greece. As the 1918 epidemic goes around the world, the stories blend the human and the scientific. New York City's successful efforts to save lives are a fascinating example of the astute handling of a health crisis. Unusual stories, such as how an insurance payout began the Trump family's rise and how the character Nosferatu reflected the situation, are also included.
Pub Date: Sept. 12, 2017
Duration: 10 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781478989295
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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