Book description
Audiobook Review: A Coming of Age by Timothy Zahn
Timothy Zahn's "A Coming of Age" presents a compelling dystopian narrative that explores the consequences of extraordinary power in the wrong hands. Set on the colonized planet Tigris, this audiobook delivers a thought-provoking examination of societal control and the dangerous potential of unchecked authority.
The story takes place two centuries after the Lost Generation crisis, when children's telekinetic abilities caused widespread chaos before mysteriously disappearing at puberty. Zahn crafts a world where this traumatic history has led to rigid social controls over adolescent populations, creating an atmosphere of tension that permeates the entire narrative.
The audiobook's strength lies in its multi-layered plot structure, following three distinct yet interconnected storylines. Matthew Jarvis, a medical researcher conducting secret experiments, represents the scientific community's temptation to push ethical boundaries. His work on extending telekinetic abilities beyond puberty serves as a catalyst for the central conflict. Meanwhile, the Prophet Omega operates as a criminal figure exploiting children for personal gain, highlighting the darker aspects of human nature. Perhaps most intriguing is Lisa Duncan, whose simple act of learning to read becomes a subversive challenge to authoritarian control.
Zahn's background in physics brings a methodical approach to world-building, making the telekinetic elements feel grounded rather than fantastical. The author skillfully weaves together these separate threads, building toward a climax where Detective Stanford Tirrell and his partner Tonio must prevent societal collapse.
The audiobook format serves this complex narrative well, allowing listeners to absorb the intricate political dynamics and character motivations through skilled vocal performance. Zahn's prose translates effectively to audio, maintaining clarity while preserving the tension inherent in the story's moral ambiguities.
This work stands as an engaging exploration of power, control, and the cyclical nature of history, making it particularly relevant for listeners interested in thoughtful science fiction that prioritizes social commentary alongside its speculative elements.
Sw33per
The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. This app is a game-changer for audiobook lovers! The interface is clean and easy to use. The app is so intuitive. I didnโt even need to read the instructions.
Manly Reno
Automated artwork and metadata extraction keeps my audiobook library visually appealing. My audiobook collection has never been more organized. Library management is a breeze.
Manimal
Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks seamlessly. Very convenient. ListenBookโs interface is sleek and user-friendly. Finding and playing my audiobooks has never been easier. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Pixie
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro adds a personal touch to my experience. ListenBook has made audiobook listening a personalized and enriching journey. ๐๐ On-the-go listening has never been smoother โ this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. ๐๐ The audiobook player's silky-smooth playback is like music to my ears. Flawless performance! An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
NecroBull
I'm addicted to this app โ it's a non-stop journey through captivating tales. ๐ Turning road trips into unforgettable adventures โ audiobooks keep me entertained on the journey! ๐๐ Audiobooks made convenient โ this app's functionality is impressive. ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks a breeze. The smooth playback and intuitive interface are unmatched.
Neophyte Believer
Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a thoughtful and enjoyable way to share my favorite stories with friends and introduce them to new worlds of literature. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Renegade Slugger
Listening to books in their original language has improved my foreign language skills. ListenBook has united my love for audiobooks with my passion for learning. What a brilliant app!
ZenZone
ListenBook's support for various audio formats makes it a versatile app for all kinds of audiobook enthusiasts. Audiobooks on this app have turned my exercise sessions into moments of education. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling.
Twix Esses
With this app, I'm experiencing the joy of reading in a whole new light. ๐งโโ๏ธ Finding zen through storytelling โ this app makes meditation even more calming. ๐งโโ๏ธ๐ง
Slug-em-dog
ListenBook has turned my downtime into an opportunity for exploration and growth. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made a significant difference in the clarity of recordings.
Spontan8ty
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my content wherever I go. Audiobook multitasking made easy โ this app's functionality is a marvel.
TeederSmartie
ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening into a personalized experience. Easy chapter navigation and beautiful design make this app stand out.
Trouble Mittens
No more carrying heavy books โ this app has transformed my reading habits. Efficiency meets audiobooks โ this app's functionality is a perfect match. Looping playback helps me retain knowledge from audiobooks effectively. It's an invaluable tool. The app's ability to handle various audio formats is impressive. No more file conversions! I love the variety of themes available. It makes the app feel personalized.
ByteBard
ListenBook is a game-changer โ it plays a wide variety of formats without any conversion needed. ListenBookโs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Shy Warrior
My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thanks to automatic artwork and metadata. The app's compatibility with CarPlay has made my road trips so much more enjoyable.
Curio
Kudos to the creators for making literature so accessible and enjoyable. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app. The app is perfect for people with busy schedules. I can listen on the go.
NeoGermal
I can't imagine my life without this app โ it's my daily dose of literary magic. ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening into a personalized experience. ListenBook's compatibility with a wide range of audio formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits.
Lucky Brandy
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features are a game-changer โ I can have my audiobooks ready in no time. Precise controls on ListenBook give me complete command over my audio playback. ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and efficient.
Pepper
ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. Effortlessly enjoying audiobooks on the go โ kudos to this app's functionality. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Reed Lady
I never thought I'd enjoy audiobooks as much as I do now โ all thanks to this app. Audiobooks have become a part of my self-care routine, thanks to this app. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark featureโit saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience