Read by Robert Fass

Using fascinating profiles of companies and products old and new, including Red Bull, the iPod, Timberland, and American Apparel, New York Times Consumed columnist Rob Walker demonstrates that modern consumers are likely to embrace marketing and use brands to craft and express their political, cultural, and even artistic identities. Combine this with marketers' new ability to blur the line between advertising, entertainment, and public space, and you have dramatically altered the relationship between consumer and consumed. "A fresh and fascinating exploration of the places where material culture and identity intersect." "Superbly readable…a thoughtful and unhurried investigation into consumerism…marked by meticulous research and careful conclusions." "A compelling blend of cultural anthropology and business journalism." "Few observers have plumbed the subterranean poetry of marketing as thoroughly as Walker." "Provocative…richly reported." "Fass puts the energy of a caffeinated sports drink into his delivery, projecting the author's message like a super-salesman. He modulates his tone and volume to keep listeners' attention as they learn the trade secrets of 'commercial persuasion.'"

Mode of access: World Wide Web