This is an odd book, a collection of snippets of logic and advice from a blog created by the authors of FREAKONOMICS. Author Stephen Dubner has a pleasant voice and is easy to listen to. His coauthor, Steven Levitt, is not as polished and speaks more slowly. Many diverse topics are discussed, such as why do people buy bottled water when they can get it for free. The answers sometimes seem rushed or fleeting but are are always interesting. Professional narrators Erik Bergmann and Thérèse Plummer take on additional narration duties. This is a good audiobook for commutes.
Pub Date: May 5, 2015
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780062394934
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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