We're easily tricked because we want to live in an orderly world in which people tell the truth, according to the author of this timely book on manipulation and deception. As narrator, her rather flat and often overly serious performance takes something away from her lucid writing and thorough research. But her vocal tone and phrasing are good, and her writing delivers insights so compelling that most listeners will quickly get over what's missing in the performance. With its revelations and huge array of historical examples, this work is a nuanced look at the skills and motivations behind all types of con artistry. It covers a lot of ground, from grifters and family embezzlers to top-level criminals like Bernie Madoff and sociopathic political operatives. With its momentum propelled by the subject matter alone, it's an engaging lesson on how to understand our vulnerabilities and better spot deception in these ambiguous times.
Pub Date: Jan. 12, 2016
Duration: 12 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9780698411517
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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