Book description
Bud Caldwell doesn't just survive 1936 Flint, Michigan-he crafts a life out of sheer grit and a suitcase full of treasures. Ten years old, motherless, and running from a foster home that feels like a cage, Bud's got his own rules for surviving hard times, a notebook of "Rules and Things," and a clue: flyers for Herman E. Calloway's band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression!!!" His mission? Find the man who might be his father. Forget vampires or hunger-nothing stops Bud once he's set his mind on a path.
The audiobook version of Bud, Not Buddy is pure magic. Christopher Paul Curtis's storytelling, already vibrant on the page, becomes utterly alive in the narrator's voice. You hear the sharp, determined rhythm of Bud's thoughts as he navigates a world of hardship and kindness, his voice crackling with the confidence of a kid who knows exactly who he is-even when the world tries to tell him otherwise. The narrator captures Bud's cleverness, his quiet fears, and his infectious humor perfectly, making every detail feel immediate. You'll hear the rustle of his suitcase, the nervous tap of his fingers on a bus seat, and the way he turns a bad situation into a story with a twist.
What makes this audiobook shine isn't just the plot-it's the warmth. Bud's rules aren't just a list; they're a lifeline, a way to make sense of a confusing world. You'll laugh when he declares himself "a better liar than a lot of people," and you'll feel the sting when he's told he's "just a boy." The band flyers, the bus rides, the encounters with strangers who become unexpected allies-they all come alive through the narration. It's impossible not to root for Bud, to feel that same spark of hope he carries, even when things seem darkest.
This isn't just a story about a boy on the run. It's about the power of hope, the resilience of a child's imagination, and the quiet strength found in small, meaningful things-a worn-out jacket, a carefully saved photograph, a rule that says, "Always be polite." The audiobook delivers all this with such authenticity that you'll find yourself nodding along, smiling at Bud's cleverness, and feeling the genuine joy of a story where a kid's determination truly changes everything. You'll finish it feeling lighter, reminded that even in the toughest times, a little courage and a good set of rules can lead you home. A perfect listen for anyone who needs a reminder of how bright a single, determined spirit can shine.
Sky Trinity
This app has reignited my passion for reading, and I'm forever grateful. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to spread the joy of captivating stories with friends. The audio quality is superb. ListenBook enhances my audiobook experience.
RedMouth
I'm able to enjoy books in a whole new way β while cooking, working out, or even gardening. This app has turned audiobook listening into a daily ritual for me. This app has turned even the most ordinary moments into reading sessions. CUE playlist support is a rare gem. Perfect for organizing content efficiently.
Spoiler Betty
With ListenBook, every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories and gain knowledge. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a dream come true for those epic tales. It's like having a personal audiobook library in your pocket. Download options are abundant, from WiFi to iTunes. It's all about convenience with this app. The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive.
xFRST
I'm hooked on this app's effortless downloading process β I can have my favorite audiobooks in seconds. π Rekindling my love for reading β this app has reintroduced me to the joy of books in a whole new way. ππ₯
ShadowFax
ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a thoughtful touch I appreciate. I'm amazed by how this app effortlessly turns my daily routines into enjoyable learning sessions. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. I love the ability to import books from my computer. Itβs so easy.
Romance Guppy
βοΈ A round of applause for an app that prioritizes functionality β I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and other tasks. ππ§ ListenBook's statistics feature is both enlightening and motivating. It's incredible to see the time I've invested in learning through audiobooks. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
ForumFlare
Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique feature that adds a personalized touch to the listening experience. The narrator was good but spoke a bit too slowly for my taste. I had to speed it up to 1.2x which then made some parts sound slightly unnatural.
Ex0tic
I can't imagine my daily rituals without this app β it's a constant source of joy. I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually fulfilling.
New York Mood
The extensive audiobook collection for children is a blessing for my little ones. This served its purpose as background listening while I worked. I probably missed some details but the narrator's voice was pleasant enough.
Gas Man
Audiobooks have become my go-to gift for friends β and they all love it! This app has introduced me to authors I'd never heard of β now they're my favorites! The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Tart Voodoo
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. π± Turning my phone into a portal of endless stories β this app is pure magic! πβ¨ The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace.
Cowboy Booter
This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. Audiobooks made accessible β this app's ease of use is a true blessing. The app is very intuitive. ListenBook makes finding and playing audiobooks simple.
Mammoth 2
This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore. ListenBook has changed the way I listen to audiobooks. The app is so easy to use.
FRMhndshk
π An app that turns house chores into exciting adventures β count me in! π§Ήπ Navigating through chapters is a breeze. I can easily jump to the parts I want to listen to. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a huge plus. I can control my audiobooks from my wrist!
Video Game Heroine
ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. An audiobook lover's dream come true! This app's seamless functionality and diverse format support make it my go-to choice for immersive storytelling. ππ§ CUE playlist support helps me organize my audiobooks efficiently. It's a great organizational tool.
Disco Potato
I'm addicted to the personalized recommendations β it's like the app knows me! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook is a fantastic way to spread the joy of listening. I'm amazed by how this app effortlessly turns my daily routines into enjoyable learning sessions. I can't imagine my life without this app β it's my constant source of books. Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Deano
I can't imagine my life without this app β it's my daily dose of literature. πΆββοΈπ§ Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks β pure bliss! ποΈπ Savoring audiobooks without complications β this app's design is commendable.
Apple Nola
This app's ease of use has made reading an integral part of my everyday life. The statistics feature is a fantastic addition β knowing how much time I spend on audiobooks is eye-opening, and ListenBook makes tracking it a breeze. My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thank you, ListenBook! Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my library look organized and professional.
Pompeii Unicorn
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch, combined with its chapters, controls, and filters, make it the ultimate audiobook app! ListenBook Pro offers an unbeatable deal β unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction.
PixelPilgrim
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audio needs are met. With this app, I've found a way to turn every moment into an opportunity for learning and enrichment. π§ Immerse yourself in stories effortlessly β this app's functionality is the gateway to endless audiobook adventures. ππ Excellent support for various audio formats. Very satisfied.
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