Comments by Ann Dornfeld

Comment for "Housing for South Africa's poor"

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Review of Housing for South Africa's poor

Could be a bit out of reach of U.S. listeners, as it assumes knowledge about the landscape (political and geographic).

Too many numbers thrown at the listener: square footage, occupant count, etc. More vivid, qualitative description would keep it interesting. For example, I don't reckon I'd recognize an RDP home if I came upon one.

Really nice, relaxed read and overall pace. Thoughtful reporting and tone.

And, as always, it's good to have a "solution" story in a sea of "problem" pieces!

Comment for "Homeschooling Dance Party"

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Review of Homeschooling Dance Party

The setting of the piece makes it hard to take more than just a superficial look at homeschoolers' social lives. But Hillary did a good job capturing the feel of the event, and its unusual nature. Her attention to the similarities between these kids and traditionally-schooled teens was careful and thorough.

The sound was fine, although nothing particularly innovative. What was at issue was the way kids feel about their lives, however, so the audio served that purpose.

Finally, Hillary's delivery was - unsurprisingly - oh-so-This American Life. Studied, relaxed, and terribly familiar.