Robert Petkoff presents this account of our nation's rise to the status of a world power in the late 1890s with straightforward style. Kinzer's work describes the heated debates between those who pushed for an American empire and those who were just as vehement in opposing American expansionism. Though the circumstances have changed, the arguments are still recognizable and resonant in our current political environment. Petkoff employs his baritone voice in a somewhat understated delivery. This is a reading rather than a performance--and seems more academic than entertaining in essence. Nonetheless, Petkoff's voice is clear, and his narration overall makes for a pleasant listening experience.
Pub Date: Jan. 24, 2017
Duration: 11 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781427288899
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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