Archaeologist Monica L. Smith's passion for the history and importance of cities comes through in her narration of this audiobook. More than half of the world's population resides in cities, and this proportion is expected to grow. The intangibles of city life--the breadth of career opportunities; the plethora of dining, cultural, and entertainment options; and the large and diverse pool of potential romantic partners and friends--are a continuing draw. Smith narrates this well-researched and absorbing work in an engaging voice. Her enunciation is clear, although she occasionally places too strong an emphasis on a short phrase. Nonetheless, her enthusiasm for this subject matter and interest in sharing her expertise shine through and fully engage listeners.
Pub Date: April 16, 2019
Duration: 7 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781984842862
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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