The author examines the largely unreported takeover of the Grand Mosque by Muslim fundamentalists in 1979, which saw hundreds of deaths and the emergence of ill-will towards the United States. Trofimov's descriptions of the events lie somewhere between real-life tragedy and political thriller. The story is expertly realized by narrator Todd McLaren's clear elocution and well-paced reading, which captures the mounting tension of the harrowing event. Though McLaren opts not to employ a variety of tones and accents to represent the large cast, his firm understanding and pronunciation of Islamic phrases bring an air of authenticity to the story. With Trofimov's journalistic background, McLaren's narration often sounds like a documentary report, but the material is so fascinating that listeners will remained thoroughly engaged.
Pub Date: Oct. 2, 2007
Duration: 8 hrs, 30 mins
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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