Sarah Kendzior narrates her essays from the past several years, political critiques of American labor, power, and injustice, in this powerful audiobook. While the title invokes the American Midwest, and portions of the audiobook are written directly from that perspective, the overall theme of social injustice is not exclusive to that region. Actions often thought to be pillars of the American Dream--obtaining higher education, commitment to hard work--are deconstructed in what Kendzior calls the "post-employment" society. Kendzior pushes back against tolerating injustices such as free labor through internships as well as low wages. Not a screed, this is a thoughtfully researched commentary, and Kendzior's narration matches that spirit.
Pub Date: April 24, 2018
Duration: 6 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781427299789
Publisher: Macmillan 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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