SUPERFREAKANOMICS follows the trend made popular in the authors’ first book, FREAKONOMICS, as well as the works of writers like Malcolm Gladwell: questioning conventional wisdom. Still, one has to wonder if they aren't deliberately seeking controversy by going after such sacred cows as Al Gore and whether Iran isn't ahead of us in paying people to donate organs, to say nothing of advice on how to become a better-paid prostitute. Couple that with the only thinly veiled hint of mischief that comes through in Dubner's delivery, and it seems clear he's having a fine old time tweaking our perceptions. Whether one agrees with the authors or not, Dubner's high-energy reading and obvious glee over some of the great "got-cha!" moments make for addictive listening.
Pub Date: Oct. 20, 2009
Duration: 7 hrs, 30 mins
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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