Book description
NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FINALIST - A sweeping, genre-bending "masterpiece" (Minneapolis Star Tribune) exploring Black art, music, and culture in all their glory and complexity--from Soul Train, Aretha Franklin, and James Brown to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Whitney Houston, and Beyoncรฉ ONE OF THE TEN BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: Chicago Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Dallas Morning News, Publishers Weekly "Gorgeous essays that reveal the resilience, heartbreak, and joy within Black performance."--Brit Bennett, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Vanishing Half "I was a devil in other countries, and I was a little devil in America, too." Inspired by these few words, spoken by Josephine Baker at the 1963 March on Washington, MacArthur "Genius Grant" Fellow and bestselling author Hanif Abdurraqib has written a profound and lasting reflection on how Black performance is inextricably woven into the fabric of American culture. Each moment in every performance he examines--whether it's the twenty-seven seconds in "Gimme Shelter" in which Merry Clayton wails the words "rape, murder," a schoolyard fistfight, a dance marathon, or the instant in a game of spades right after the cards are dealt--has layers of resonance in Black and white cultures, the politics of American empire, and Abdurraqib's own personal history of love, grief, and performance. Touching on Michael Jackson, Patti LaBelle, Billy Dee Williams, the Wu-Tan Clan, Dave Chappelle, and more, Abdurraqib writes prose brimming with jubilation and pain. With care and generosity, he explains the poignancy of performances big and small, each one feeling intensely familiar and vital, both timeless and desperately urgent. Filled with sharp insight, humor, and heart, A Little Devil in America exalts the Black performance that unfolds in specific moments in time and space--from midcentury Paris to the moon, and back down again to a cramped living room in Columbus, Ohio. WINNER OF THE ANDREW CARNEGIE MEDAL AND THE GORDON BURN PRIZE - FINALIST FOR THE NATIONAL BOOK CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD AND THE PEN/DIAMONSTEIN-SPIELVOGEL AWARD ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: The New York Times Book Review, Time, The Boston Globe, NPR, Rolling Stone, Esquire, BuzzFeed, Thrillist, She Reads, BookRiot, BookPage, Electric Lit, The Rumpus, LitHub, Library Journal, Booklist
HOV
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. I've rediscovered my love for reading, all thanks to this app's convenience. ๐ฉโ๐ณ Cooking up a storm while enjoying thrilling stories โ this app adds flavor to my meals! ๐ณ๐ง Looping playback helps me revise and memorize complex topics effectively. A study essential! Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Necessary Momentum
This app's seamless integration with my devices has made audiobook listening a hassle-free experience. I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for learning. ListenBook's library organization keeps my audiobooks neat and accessible. A true organizational lifesaver!
Elder Pogue
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. ListenBook Pro offers an unbeatable deal โ unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction. A functional audiobook production that met basic requirements. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough to listen to for extended periods, though their performance didn't add much interpretation to the text. The audio engineering was competent without being remarkable.
Homerun Diva
ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats means I can listen to all my favorite content without worries. ๐ก Enriching my daily routines with wisdom and wonder โ thank you, this app! ๐ฑ๐ Audiobooks made easy โ this app's functionality is truly a gift. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks from various sources has become effortless. Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library.
Friday Ferrari
I've found hidden gems in genres I never thought I'd be interested in. The Looping playback and Shuffle features on ListenBook help me customize my listening sessions to my liking. With ListenBook, I've found a convenient and enjoyable way to engage with audiobooks and educational content. No more straining my eyes โ this app lets me 'read' with my ears!
Ship Whip
The ability to listen to books while multitasking is a game-changer for me. ListenBook's library organization and book groups help me keep my content neatly sorted. Library organization and book groups make managing my audiobook collection a breeze. ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
StormCake
Say hello to audiobook nirvana! This app's user-friendly design and comprehensive features have made my reading routine smoother than ever. ๐๐ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a playful addition that lets me tweak the audiobook experience. With features like auto-rewind, I never lose my place when I pause listening. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. I can group related titles for easy access.
Muzish
ListenBook has become my trusted companion, making even the busiest days enjoyable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my immersion in every audiobook, regardless of surroundings. Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch.
Twinkle Cutlass
I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually fulfilling. ListenBook Pro is worth every penny. Unlimited audiobook length? Count me in! 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.
Bad Beh8vior
I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed โ it's my form of meditation. Audiobooks on the go โ this app's design prioritizes convenience. 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!
Abyss Tamer
No more fighting over the radio during family trips โ we're all hooked on audiobooks now. Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I learn and enjoy audiobooks. I can adapt the pace to my needs, maximizing comprehension and retention. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that sets this app apart. With ListenBook Pro, long audiobooks are no problem. I love it!
Day Hawk
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Excellent app!
Dancing Madman
I'm blown away by the range of non-fiction audiobooks available โ so much to learn! The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. Audiobooks have never been this engaging โ this app takes them to the next level. This app has made my daily routines more meaningful and enjoyable.
Atlantic Rim
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats means I can now enjoy all my favorite audiobooks in one place. The interface is sleek and intuitive, making my audiobook experience a joy. Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very pleased. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work! A textbook example of great audiobook narration! The performer's diction was flawless, their pacing ideal, and their emotional range impressive. I never felt like I was being "read to" but rather like I was experiencing the story firsthand. The audio engineering was equally professional.
Shadow Chaser
I've discovered authors I'd never heard of before, and now they're among my favorites. With ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become hassle-free, thanks to the various download options. Fairly enjoyable, but forgettable. I didnโt have any major complaints, but I also donโt see myself revisiting this one. It was a decent way to spend a few hours, though.
ByteBard
This app's user-friendly interface has made reading on-the-go a breeze. ๐โโ๏ธ๐ I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. ๐ฑ๐ The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Shadow Bishop
ListenBook has made managing and enjoying audiobooks a seamless and delightful experience. Audiobooks at my fingertips โ this app's functionality is a true marvel.
Milan Call Back
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
FLAK Angel
The range of self-help and personal development audiobooks is truly enriching. ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book.
Centurion Sherman
The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. ListenBook's looping playback, shuffle feature, and configurable controls make learning a breeze. Say goodbye to monotony โ this app's diverse format compatibility and intuitive controls have turned every moment into a thrilling audiobook experience. ๐ฑ๐ The app's integration with CarPlay enhances my road trips with immersive audiobook journeys.
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