Normally, this sort of thing interests this reviewer not at all. But! Scandalous gossip of the rich, famous and decadent here receives a more or less serious journalistic approach via a probe of all of the world's wealthiest communities. Not one dull passage mars this exercise, at least as narrated by George Plimpton, sometime actor, full-time litterateur, and longtime editor of the PARIS REVIEW. Not only does he read particularly well in the conversational manner, but Plimpton possesses the accent of the East Coast elite, which gives him a particularly appropriate sound for a discussion of patrician excess. The newsy prose style, subject matter and choice of narrator combine delightfully for a rare aural treat far greater than the sum of its parts.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 1999
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Harper 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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