If you need reminding that recent global events, the rise of nationalism and demagogues, and the rejection of the liberal world order pose a threat to freedom, then this audiobook is for you. Narrator Derek Perkins's deep voice and English accent capture the audiobook's pessimistic tone. The author compares the events of our time with mostly catastrophic twentieth-century events and concludes that we are susceptible to the same forces that led to the breakdown of the world order at that time. Perkins's voice is reminiscent of WWII documentary narrators of the BBC, full of ominous portents but somehow vaguely reassuring that truth win out in the end. His pacing and diction are exemplary, but, again, this is not an audiobook for those looking for hope.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2017
Duration: 12 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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