The futurist and computer pioneer Ray Kurzweil says that understanding how human brains process information will allow powerful computers to think like we do and address some of humankind's greatest challenges. He explains higher-level thinking as being organized in pattern-recognizing neuron clusters that are wired together in hierarchical layers in the cortex. These layers use broad categories to sort diverse data and thus create a system for perceiving the world, sorting through priorities, and directing action. Along with the author's snappy writing and colorful imagery, narrator Christopher Lane's sonority and silky-smooth phrasing provide the artistic touch needed to offset this book's intellectual weightiness. Delivered with understated power, this work is an intimate performance that also embodies the perfect amount of professorial distance.
Pub Date: Nov. 13, 2012
Duration: 10 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781469203881
Publisher: Brilliance 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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