Grover Gardner’s polished reading helps but cannot wholly save Durant’s late-life reflections on subjects such as religion, philosophy, and the nature of mankind. But Gardner brings all his skill to bear, and the reading is engaging, even entertaining, with an easy swing of tones that match the meanings and add emphasis at apt places, and an expressiveness that’s relaxed, sensitive, and intelligent. He captures perfectly a thread of self-deprecating modesty that offsets the doctrinaire quality of Durant’s pronouncements. Durant’s modest manner, some thoughtful passages, and Gardner’s skill in conveying it all to the listener help keep this production from being a curious relic.
Pub Date: Dec. 9, 2014
Duration: 5 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781483038810
Publisher: Blackstone 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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