The End of Big: How the Internet Makes David the New Goliath

Mele, an early pioneer in web political and business strategy, offers a treatise on how digital media is reshaping—for both better and worse—the major institutions of society and shattering long-standing hierarchies. In his performance, Sean Runnette adopts a style that seems a bit monotone—but because this title centers on the triumph of outlaw “nerd culture” and the growth of the Internet, his delivery seems to matches the cerebral aspects of the narrative. Runnette does convey a range of emotion in sections addressing the urgent need for society to preserve civic ideals and principles in the uncharted waters of new media. Runette also utilizes deliberate annunciation and shifts in rhythm to emphasize key points. However, listeners not already steeped in public policy issues related to technology may find themselves a little lost. A St. Martin’s hardcover. (Apr.)