As Wilentz examines the value of politics in securing the American democratic dream, narrator Joe Barrett gives life to what could have been a tedious historical discourse. His pace is good, and he slows slightly when making vital points. Varying his tone to suit the material, he keeps the sometimes highly detailed text from becoming dry. Overall, Barrett delivers the narrative the way many students might wish their instructors delivered lectures. He also adopts hints of accents to indicate direct quotes, with uneven success, but this hardly detracts from his overall effectiveness. The author's defense of politicians is especially insightful in today's anti-Washington climate.
Pub Date: May 17, 2016
Duration: 12 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781681681832
Publisher: HighBridge 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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