After listening to this audiobook, one can only conclude that Scientology erupted full blown from the mind of L. Ron Hubbard, whose ultimate goal was to become rich, powerful, and famous--and he succeeded. This is a difficult listening experience. Narrator Morton Sellers makes a fearless attempt to put an objective spin on this fact-driven work. His performance of the dialogue is laudable, but the paranoia and aggression of the words themselves are alarming and tainted this listener's enjoyment. It's downright chilling to listen to what money, power, and single-mindedness can create out of a vulnerable population of, in some cases, highly intelligent individuals. This is a good listen for those who enjoy controversy in their audiobooks.
Pub Date: Jan. 17, 2013
Duration: 17 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780385393058
Publisher: Random House 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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