Anti-intellectualism is destroying America, says author Susan Jacoby, a "cultural conservationist." From the vast number of people who believe in creationism, angels, and the paranormal to the growing contempt for the intelligent and thoughtful, a lack of reason--and knowledge--in our culture is affecting our political choices. But Jacoby spends too much time giving a litany of negatives, rather than offering suggestions as to how to make things better--other than to turn off the TV and read a book. Cassandra Campbell's slow, monotonous reading of detail after detail makes this book sound even more like a screed. While Jacoby may be right about most of what she says, her book is too long, and Campbell's narration does not enhance it.
Pub Date: Feb. 4, 2008
Duration: 15 hrs
Publisher: Tantor Media
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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