THE NORDIC THEORY OF EVERYTHING In Search of a Better Life

Partanen, a new American from Finland, argues that achieving the American dream of freedom and upward mobility is now more likely in Scandinavia than in the U.S. Narrator Abby Craden proves an energetic and compelling guide as the author explodes myths of the high-tax and socialist north, using research and personal stories. Partanen argues that government supports freedom rather than compromising it. Average Scandinavian and American citizens pay a similar proportion of income taxes, but Scandinavians receive health care, affordable child care, parental leave, and excellent public education, thus reducing dependence on families, employers, and government. While some of the voices Craden employs fall wide of the mark--a minor quibble--she successfully distinguishes direct quotations by deepening her voice or adopting an accent. A.B. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2016]