Britain’s champion of alternative science reads his own comprehensive response to the mechanistic orthodoxy of modern science. Sheldrake effectively shatters the myth that modern science is objective and open to new possibilities. As he sketches out his alternative worldview, his performance has both the advantages and drawbacks of an author reading: He knows his vocabulary and where to place emphasis. He is more inclined to monotone than a professional actor. He is always clear and well paced. His cultivated accent reminds the listener of his scientific credentials. For longer quotes, Sheldrake uses secondary readers with accents vaguely like those of the thinkers quoted. This can be distracting.
Pub Date: Sept. 4, 2012
Duration: 12 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780449806548
Publisher: Random House Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Kuin's study of the ancient Greek cynic who made philosophy a performance art is comfortably supported by Cassandra Campbell's easygoing performance, which carries the listener through the text's occasional repetition and lack of focus. While Campbell's pleasant voice and manner don't always match up with Diogenes' persona as a transgressive maverick, that doesn't undermine her capacity to understand and convey the book's ideas about Diogenes and his later influence, even when they're obscure or challenging. Unfortunately, in contrast with her careful pronunciation of Greek terms, a handful of prominent mispronunciations suggests a lack of editorial support. Overall, Campbell's amiable, discerning performance ably presents this often-insightful study of a philosophic original.
Pub Date: Nov. 11, 2025
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668656402
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Angela Buchdahl, senior rabbi at one of the most influential Reform synagogues in the country, tells her story with the same energetic, approachable delivery she employs in her public speaking. Her path to the rabbinate was anything but usual; Buchdahl was born in Seoul, South Korea, to an Asian Buddhist mother and a white Jewish father. Each biographical chapter of the audiobook ends with a related teaching from a Jewish text that introduces listeners to Jewish history and beliefs. The Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, is addressed, although her thoughts have evolved since writing this book. Ordained a cantor before becoming a rabbi, Buchdahl intersperses music from Jewish tradition, and her lovely singing voice is a special treat in this outstanding production.
Pub Date: Oct. 21, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217163793
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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