Book description
A Wolfson History Prize FinalistA New Statesman Book of the YearA Sunday Times Book of the Year "Timely and authoritative...I enjoyed it immensely."--Philip Pullman "If you care about books, and if you believe we must all stand up to the destruction of knowledge and cultural heritage, this is a brilliant read--both powerful and prescient."--Elif Shafak Libraries have been attacked since ancient times but they have been especially threatened in the modern era, through war as well as willful neglect. Burning the Books describes the deliberate destruction of the knowledge safeguarded in libraries from Alexandria to Sarajevo, from smashed Assyrian tablets to the torching of the Library of Congress. The director of the world-famous Bodleian Libraries, Richard Ovenden, captures the political, religious, and cultural motivations behind these acts. He also shines a light on the librarians and archivists preserving history and memory, often risking their lives in the process. More than simply repositories for knowledge, libraries support the rule of law and inspire and inform citizens. Ovenden reminds us of their social and political importance, challenging us to protect and support these essential institutions. "Wonderful...full of good stories and burning with passion."--Sunday Times "The sound of a warning vibrates through this book."--The Guardian "Essential reading for anyone concerned with libraries and what Ovenden outlines as their role in 'the support of democracy, the rule of law and open society.'"--Wall Street Journal "Ovenden emphasizes that attacks on books, archives, and recorded information are the usual practice of authoritarian regimes."--Michael Dirda, Washington Post
Abyss Tamer
ListenBook has taken my listening pleasure to new heights β it's a true audio marvel. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become effortless, regardless of the source. I love the cloud integration. I can access my books from anywhere.
WonderWords
The app's layout is clean and intuitive, making it a pleasure to navigate. Say goodbye to cumbersome interfaces β this app's intuitive controls and user-friendly design have elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. π±π Unlocking a world of literary wonders β this app's extensive format support and user-centric approach have rekindled my love for books. π±π
VisionVortex
ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to create curated listening experiences for different moods and settings.
LifeRobber
ListenBook Pro offers an unbeatable deal β unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction. This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of literary escape. ListenBook is more than just an app β it's a doorway to a world of knowledge and imagination. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldnβt necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Speedwell
I've been recommending this app to all my friends β it's a true game-changer. This app's convenience has made reading a consistent part of my life. Binaural audio processing is amazing. Reduced my listening fatigue significantly. Perfect for repeat listening! The narrator's performance was so rich with detail that I'm sure I'll discover new layers on a second listen. Their interpretation felt authentic to the material while bringing fresh insights. The audio production was pristine from start to finish.
Marshmallow
The sleek design and easy navigation are visually pleasing and user-friendly. The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a huge plus.
RightN0w2
Frequent updates ensure there's always something new and exciting to listen to. ListenBook's support for various audio formats means I never have to worry about compatibility issues. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
FrankenGrin
I'm constantly amazed by the vast selection β there's always something new to discover. ListenBook's commitment to providing a high-quality audiobook experience is truly commendable. πΆπ Setting the mood with stories instead of songs β this app is my go-to playlist! π§π The app's integration with Apple Watch makes it an indispensable tool for my active lifestyle. Looping playback is an invaluable tool for my study sessions. It helps me grasp complex concepts.
Devil Bread
πΌ Merging work and pleasure β audiobooks keep me company during house admin tasks! π»π§ ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options have made audiobook revisiting and studying a breeze. The app's performance is remarkable β it's fast, stable, and designed to cater to audiobook enthusiasts. It's a pleasure to use. Elegant design and user-friendly interface. Love it!
Free Ham
Language courses on audiobooks helped me pick up a new language effortlessly. πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis. 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. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay and Apple Watch is fantastic. I can listen anywhere.
Tough Nut
This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. This app has given me the joy of reading even when my hands are full. 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. Perfect for my daily walks. The story was engaging enough to keep me motivated to exercise but not so complex that I got lost in thought. Great production quality too.
Orange Teflon
This app has rekindled my passion for storytelling in the most convenient way. This app has broadened my literary horizons, introducing me to new authors. πΌ Elevating my work-from-home routine with this app's delightful audiobook selection! π»π Looping playback is my favorite feature. It's perfect for revisiting complex content.
Snow Hound
I've been recommending this app to all my friends β it's a true game-changer. ListenBook's extensive format support makes it the ultimate audiobook app for any audiobook lover. This app has transformed my daily commute into a captivating journey of knowledge and entertainment. I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldnβt necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
ByteBard
ListenBook's customizable audio filters allow me to personalize my listening experience β a fantastic feature. I'm amazed at how this app has brought back the joy of reading into my daily routine β thank you! Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful.
Fire Fish
π₯ Adding a spark of excitement to my daily routine β this app is my secret weapon! β¨π ListenBook has made managing my audiobook collection a breeze. Library organization is top-notch. The app is perfect for long walks. It keeps me company the whole time.
InfinityInsight
Noise reduction on ListenBook enhances the clarity of dictaphone recordings, allowing me to enjoy content even in noisy environments. This app's ease of use has made my daily activities more enjoyable and educational. ListenBook makes organizing my audiobooks simple. The app is very user-friendly.
East Army
ListenBook's library organization and Book Groups feature make it easy to keep my audiobooks organized and accessible. I can't get enough of this app β it's like having a personal library with me. πΆββοΈπ§ Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks β pure bliss! ποΈπ Audiobook pleasure simplified β this app's design is a standout.
Silver Rose
I love how this app makes my daily commute a journey through literature. Simplifying audiobook management β this app's functionality is a true asset. ListenBook has become my constant companion. It's like having a personal audiobook assistant.
Captain Peroxide
Book groups are a thoughtful addition. They help me keep related titles together for a seamless experience. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the joy of storytelling.
Candy Butcher
With this app, audiobook listening has become an integral part of my daily routines β it's pure bliss. ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a testament to the app's commitment to audio quality. Perfect for repeat listening! The narrator's performance was so rich with detail that I'm sure I'll discover new layers on a second listen. Their interpretation felt authentic to the material while bringing fresh insights. The audio production was pristine from start to finish.
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