The author of the most comprehensive history of the Civil Rights movement has produced a short but powerful book that highlights the major events of the era and puts those proceedings in chronological and documentary perspective. It can serve as either an introduction to the movement or a coda for those with greater knowledge of the times. Narrator Leslie Odom, Jr., has a firm yet gentle voice that conveys the significance of the story and reinforces Branch’s soaring words. His clear, well-paced reading accentuates the text and underlines the book’s inherent dignity. Odom doesn’t hurry the book along, nor does he use his voice as an instrument of instruction or oration. He simply and, at times, tenderly allows us to witness the movement as it inexorably moves toward its resolution.
Pub Date: 2013
Duration: 6 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781442359031
Publisher: Simon & Schuster 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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