The director of the British Museum examines history through particular objects. His earlier work was A HISTORY OF THE WORLD IN 100 OBJECTS. Now in 20 segments, each under 15 minutes, he turns to Shakespeare's time, shedding light on the period and the plays and showing that Shakespeare's references were often cutting-edge. MacGregor is an enjoyable narrator His enunciation is very British and almost too precise; his voice, somewhat scratchy and querulous sounding but not unpleasant. Both fit his somewhat waspish manner and observations. He's lively, intelligent, and unstuffy. Other experts weigh in as well, and actors deliver pertinent quotes from the plays. The topics and history are interesting, and their application to the plays is rewarding. The whole is an enlightening pleasure.
Pub Date: June 21, 2012
Duration: 4 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: AudioGo
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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