This book will generate praise or rebuke, depending upon the listener’s opinions about Israel, the Palestinians, the Israeli government, and Zionism. Beinart’s controversial ideas benefit from narrator Lloyd James’s steady and level cadence, which allows the material to ignite or affirm the listener. Audiobook listeners recognize the nuances of words, and this book highlights them. To some, the issue in Israel is the “occupation” of the West Bank; to others, it is the Palestinians who occupy the land and have created an “Intifada” without any right to do so. To Americans, particularly Zionists, the issues are equally polarizing. Regardless, Beinart’s analysis evokes emotions and will lead to intense debates. James senses this chasm, and his performance demonstrates how every inflection and nuance may be perceived differently, depending upon the listener’s views. D.J.S. 2013 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2012
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
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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