GOLIATH

Jonathan Davis delivers an admirable narration of this historical look at monopolies and political power. He faced no easy task--this audiobook is long and serious, with little levity or dialogue to create an easier performance path. Stoller's text gives Davis narrow lanes in which to maneuver, but he packs in enough tonal variation and emphasis to keep the listener engaged. Stoller's work has a definite leftist point of view, and some listeners may believe his take on monopoly/anti-monopoly history to be somewhat myopic. Still, this is an important, neglected history, and Stoller's stories of former behemoths like Alcoa and A&P (yes, the food store chain) are fascinating. A worthwhile listen, especially for wonks. G.S. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2020]