The author first rose to prominence with his study of Chicago gangs, for which he gained access to their daily activities. Now he's back with an examination of the underground economy of New York City. Narrating his own work, Venkatesh takes listeners with him as he struggles to make inroads into the illicit activities that take place in the big city. Initially finding it difficult to find his footing, Venkatesh eventually makes some helpful connections, ultimately uncovering bridges between rich and poor through his interviews with sex workers, immigrants, and drug dealers. The author's narration of his own work is especially instructive and illustrative because of his familiarity with his subjects.
Pub Date: Sept. 12, 2013
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9780698136045
Publisher: Penguin 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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