This audiobook posits the philosophical idea that since we humans can't choose our families, our genes, or our circumstances, then we really don't have any free will or real say in society or its governance. The real power rests with those who were born well, have money because of it, and shape society so it benefits them. It's a sobering idea, and one worth pursuing. Narrator Steve West grabs this book by the ears and narrates the heck out of it. His silky, deep British-accented voice sets the dark tone for this well-argued work. West guides us through the author's arguments and pauses enough to make sure that he doesn't lose us. He also has impeccable timing and pronunciation, and uses his voice to create tension in order to keep us listening.
Pub Date: Jan. 31, 2017
Duration: 17 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781504758383
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
The readers can't compensate for the unbearably pompous prose style of this extended parable about corporate politics and strategy.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 3 hrs
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An engaging experience.
This audiobook deals with everything from the historic investments that led to world-dominating companies, such as the Chinese technology company Tencent, to predicting the products and services of the future. An audiobook of such complexity requires a narrator who can handle the task, and David Thorpe manages it admirably. Thorpe uses his masterly voice, which sits somewhere between that of a BBC World Service presenter and an easy, relaxed Home Counties accent, to guide listeners through a sea of numbers, acronyms, and terms such as YP, RPS, and market cap. Rather than simply reading, Thorpe presents the work with excitement and enthusiasm, and this enjoyment transfers to the listener.
An engaging experience.Pub Date: Feb. 20, 2026
Duration: 13 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781668103425
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: March 17, 2026
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