Teri Schnaubelt's narration can be a bit too breathy and elongated, adding a bit more melodrama than feels right for this audiobook. Eubanks examines how computer automation increasingly operates as a mechanism to play "gotcha"--even when there is nothing to get. While no one loves a bureaucracy, Eubanks reports that people are being increasingly challenged and undermined by how algorithms are making decisions and evaluating them, particularly regarding criminal justice, social welfare, and educational opportunities. While Eubanks's prose should be presented with empathy and nuance, Schnaubelt's tone comes across as a bit haughty and condescending. The mismatch of author and narrator weakens an important contemplation on the power of computers in our contemporary world.
Pub Date: June 26, 2018
Duration: 7 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781977384423
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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