Book description
In the late 1950s, Random House editor Jason Epstein would talk jazz with Ralph Ellison or chat with Andy Warhol while pouring drinks in his office. By the 1970s, editors were poring over profit-and-loss statements. The electronics company RCA bought Random House in 1965, and then other large corporations purchased other formerly independent publishers. As multinational conglomerates consolidated the industry, the business of literature--and literature itself--transformed. Dan Sinykin explores how changes in the publishing industry have affected fiction, literary form, and what it means to be an author. Giving an inside look at the industry's daily routines, personal dramas, and institutional crises, he reveals how conglomeration has shaped what kinds of books and writers are published. Sinykin examines four different sectors of the publishing industry: mass-market books by brand-name authors like Danielle Steel; trade publishers that encouraged genre elements in literary fiction; nonprofits such as Graywolf that aspired to protect literature from market pressures; and the distinctive niche of employee-owned W. W. Norton. He emphasizes how women and people of color navigated shifts in publishing, arguing that writers such as Toni Morrison allegorized their experiences in their fiction. Big Fiction features dazzling readings of a vast range of novelists--including E. L. Doctorow, Judith Krantz, Renata Adler, Stephen King, Joan Didion, Cormac McCarthy, Chuck Palahniuk, Patrick O'Brian, and Walter Mosley--as well as vivid portraits of industry figures. Written in gripping and lively prose, this deeply original book recasts the past six decades of American fiction.
Old Man Winter
ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Vermilion
Frequent updates ensure there's always something new and exciting to listen to. Thanks to this app, I can enjoy the world of literature without missing a beat in my fast-paced life.
King Panther
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. Bookmarking on ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off – no more searching for my spot! With ListenBook, every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories and gain knowledge. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audio needs are met. The tone adjustment feature is an exciting touch, allowing me to immerse myself even more in the content.
K-9
I'm impressed by ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically. Enhancing my daily routines – this app's design makes listening a joy.
Lil Rebel Ma
The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content. The app's versatility in audio downloading is unmatched. It's a comprehensive solution for my audiobook needs.
Flint Cast-Iron
Audiobooks have become my favorite workout companions, making exercise a breeze. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my content wherever I go. Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is impressive. ListenBook's attention to detail is commendable. Every aspect of the app is well-crafted. The app is so reliable. I’ve never had any issues with it.
Plegasus
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality to a new level.
xFRST
My commutes to work have transformed into exciting journeys thanks to this app. ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. Binaural audio processing really works. Less fatigue during long listening sessions.
Steel
Being able to adjust playback speed suits everyone's preferences – a thoughtful feature. I appreciate how ListenBook offers various methods for downloading audio – it caters to different preferences. I'm impressed with the wide range of supported formats. Finally, an app that plays all my audiobooks flawlessly. Navigating through chapters has never been easier. It's a user-friendly delight. ListenBook has transformed the way I engage with literature. It's like having a virtual bookshelf in my pocket.
Demo
No need to convert files anymore – ListenBook's seamless playback of various formats is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts like me! ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features have become indispensable tools in my audiobook learning. I'm impressed with the wide range of supported formats. Finally, an app that plays all my audiobooks flawlessly. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app! The perfect balance between dramatic reading and natural storytelling. Felt like a friend telling me an amazing story rather than someone just reading words.
Most Wanted
Organization made easy! This app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures I'm always engrossed in a captivating tale. 📖📱 The app's performance is exceptional, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted audiobook experience. It's clear that it's designed with audiobook enthusiasts in mind. 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!
High Heel Goddess
Thanks for making my daily commute to work enjoyable and engaging! 🚶♂️🌟 Staying entertained during leisurely walks – audiobooks make outdoor time delightful! 🚶♂️🎧 I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Engine Eye
This app has rekindled my passion for literature in a whole new way. Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. 🚗 Transforming long drives into memorable journeys through the magic of audiobooks! 🚗📚
Gro
ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. This app's convenience and ease of use have transformed my screen time into productive learning sessions. Adjusting playback speed has given me greater control over my audiobook experience. I can optimize my learning and enjoyment by customizing the pacing. Auto-rewind feature is extremely helpful. Great functionality. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
VenusXX
This app has reignited my passion for literature – I'm devouring books like never before. I can't imagine my audio routine without ListenBook's seamless and user-friendly design.
Baby Brown
This app is like having a personal library with me wherever I go. Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is a true marvel. Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature! Supports artwork and metadata perfectly. My library looks great!
TrixiePhany
ListenBook has redefined my audiobook journey, making it more enjoyable and convenient than ever before. Finally, an app that turns my daily commute into an adventure through literature. The import process is seamless. I had no trouble adding my audiobooks.
Jester
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. ListenBook has turned my daily routines into audiobook-driven journeys of imagination.
Gunhawk
This app has transformed my daily walks into insightful journeys of knowledge – talk about efficiency! With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual discovery and personal fulfillment. This app has made my downtime so much more productive and enjoyable. 🎉 Unlocking the door to imagination – this app is my key to endless stories and endless possibilities. 📚🔑
Scare Stone
I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off. I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app! It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
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