Because WHITE TRASH is ultimately an academic tome, its narration needs to be energetic enough to make it a successful audiobook. Kirsten Potter's performance does not hold the listener's attention. This history of poor, white Americans (though it includes other races) considers topics such as the rise to the presidency of Andrew Jackson, who was born into poverty, and the sociological implications of "The Andy Griffith Show" and "The Beverly Hillbillies." In Potter's favor, her narration is rhythmic, filled with regularly emphasized syllables and brief pauses that signal a significant point ahead. Overall, though, her performance is not enough to make this complex work a compelling listen.
Pub Date: June 21, 2016
Duration: 15 hrs
Publisher: Tantor Media
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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