BRIGHT-SIDED How the Relentless Promotion of Positive Thinking Has Undermined America

Fans of Barbara Ehrenreich love her not just for her concise, well-researched writing but for her sly, sardonic humor. Kate Reading handles her latest refreshingly askance look at life in America with a nuanced, meticulous narration that ensures listeners will miss none of Ehrenreich's acerbic humor or commonsense look at our penchant for delusion. Whether she's taking on corporate downsizing or mega-churches, she deftly pricks the balloon of our fantasy that you just have to think positive thoughts and that every setback is really an opportunity. There's a good reason, she points out, why we need to pay attention to people warning us to stop building gas-guzzling SUVs or having subprime mortgage exposure. Fortunately, Reading's skillful performance makes it all a positive pleasure to take in. D.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2009]