Easterly's examination of the history, economics, and ethics of colonialism and the often demeaning "development" of the Third World is delivered by Fred Sanders. Generally, he narrates at a good pace with clarity, textual understanding, and an amiable manner. His slightly hoarse timbre is agreeable enough, but there's a certain woodenness to his diction, partly due to incorrect emphasis on the articles "a" and "the." The stiffness of his performance leaves Sanders unable to convey Easterly's frequently arch, even sarcastic, take on the hypocrisy of subjugators and development professionals claiming to benefit those they exploit or demean. Though interesting and enlightening, this audiobook is a lost opportunity for a more polished and nuanced presentation.
Pub Date: Nov. 4, 2025
Duration: 11 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668652749
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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