Listeners will likely be fascinated by Timothy Ferris's look at how science and liberty have worked together through history. His discussion is enhanced by Fred Stella's narration. Stella has the clear, straightforward voice of a radio announcer, and his apparent interest in topics such as the psychology of betting and the futures markets makes them mesmerizing for listeners as well. Ferris shows how past totalitarians—Nazis and Soviet Communists—warped science to their own ends. He goes on to criticize postwar trends on all parts of the spectrum: postmodernist criticism, the democratization of science, opposition to globalization, Islamist fundamentalism, among others. With regard to global warming, he raises questions but avoids specifics. He makes a strong case that scientific freedom benefits society.
Pub Date: Feb. 8, 2011
Duration: 14 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781441892461
Publisher: Brilliance 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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