Taleb provides some simple but often unrealized considerations on how people understand and operate within the power differentials of everyday life. Narrator Joe Ochman has a deep and gravelly voice that effectively draws in listeners and maintains their attention with a deliberate delivery and strong projection. However, Ochman's tone mixed with Taleb's prose makes the audiobook seem like a screed against other intellectuals, whom he can't stop attacking. Inevitably, the advice he provides makes sense, yet Ochman's execution is likely to alienate listeners even though it seems in alignment with the prose and word choices. Too often, Taleb's advice on understanding the underpinnings of social power sound judgmental and condescending to listeners.
Pub Date: Feb. 27, 2018
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780525630913
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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