As "rebel" economist William Easterly raises his concerns about autocracy and individual rights, narrator Chris Ciulla serves as a guide, encouraging listeners to think about the questions Easterly raises. Ciulla's voice highlights the gaps between what people say and what they mean as Easterly tells us the code words that substitute for debate. Ciulla takes on both cynical and heartfelt tones as he lays out Easterly's argument that experts, such as those at the World Bank, often favor inflexible solutions and help autocratic governments that don't respect the rights of the poor. Listeners might not agree when Easterly suggests a more market-driven approach, but his outline of the history of aid and colonialist attitudes will spark thoughts about human rights.
Pub Date: March 16, 2021
Duration: 15 hrs
DD ISBN: 9781549188862
Publisher: Hachette 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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