Narrator James Lurie does an evenhanded, well-paced reading of this strange story of agricultural espionage. Author Mara Hvistendahl also narrates a few chapters, switching to the first person to offer a personal view of the material. What unfolds is espionage among Iowa cornfields as Chinese scientists collect genetically altered corn in an attempt to beat Monsanto and Pioneer out of licensing fees. Hvistendahl highlights the various stakeholders: the corn farmers, dependent on China for sales; the FBI, eager to set an example for Chinese industrial spies; and Monsanto and Pioneer, competitors yet happy to share the resources of the federal government to protect their patents. Mix these conflicting interests, add a dab of xenophobia, and the result is an engaging listen.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2020
Duration: 8 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593166802
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
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Follow
Popular in this Genre
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
