Book description
Audiobook Review - Excellent Sheep by William Deresiewicz
If you've ever wondered whether the elite colleges that promise "world-changing" futures are actually shaping future leaders or merely producing well-polished performers, this audiobook is a wake-up call. Narrated with a calm, authoritative tone that matches Deresiewicz's own scholarly gravitas, the book feels like a conversation with an old mentor who has seen too many bright minds become "sheep" in a system that rewards conformity over curiosity.
The structure is clear and engaging: he starts by laying out his own experience as a Yale professor and admissions committee member, then moves into a series of vignettes featuring real students, parents, and counselors. These stories are not just anecdotes; they're evidence-based snapshots that illustrate the pressure cooker from high school to college applications. The narrator's pacing keeps the listener focused on each point-whether it's the overemphasis on grades, the shift away from humanities, or the loss of independent thought.
What makes this audiobook stand out is Deresiewicz's blend of critique and optimism. He doesn't simply condemn the system; he proposes concrete reforms-reintroducing critical thinking into curricula, encouraging "passionate weirdness," and redefining success beyond test scores. The solution section feels like a call to action rather than a lecture.
The narrator's voice is steady, with occasional inflection that highlights key moments-such as when Deresiewicz calls the students "sheep" or when he describes the "high-pressure conveyor belt." This subtle dramatization keeps the listening experience dynamic without becoming melodramatic. The pacing allows listeners to absorb complex arguments and reflect on their own educational experiences.
Overall, Excellent Sheep is more than a manifesto; it's a thoughtful examination of what education should be. For anyone curious about the future of higher learning-or for parents who want to understand the real pressures their children face-this audiobook offers both insight and hope. It's a compelling listen that will stay with you long after the final word.
Engine Eye
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven. The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace.
QuantumQuill
This app has broadened my literary horizons, introducing me to new authors. Audiobook magic at my fingertips! This app's comprehensive offerings, from statistics tracking to immersive audio processing, have breathed new life into my reading. πβ¨ Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to spread the joy. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly.
DriftDetector
I'm blown away by the quality of narration on this app β it's like being in the story. With this app, I've found a way to make my daily errands more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. I'm grateful for this app's ability to fit seamlessly into my lifestyle, making learning a part of my day. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Star Sword
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. π Unlocking the door to imagination β this app is my key to endless stories and endless possibilities. ππ The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Lightweight
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. This app has made my workouts and chores so much more enjoyable. is a time-saver. It's convenient for accessing my content. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. They help me keep related titles together for a seamless experience. Decent narration, predictable story. The voice actor did a good job, but the plot followed a familiar formula. If youβre looking for something new and groundbreaking, this might not be it.
Electric Saturn
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my audio content much more enjoyable in noisy environments. Seamless audiobook integration β this app's design is remarkable.
Hang 11
I can't get enough of this app β it's a true game-changer for book lovers. πΌ Balancing responsibilities with relaxation β audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. π»π
Prof. Smirk
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. ListenBook's versatility with various audio formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from multiple sources effortlessly. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a novel feature that allows for a personalized listening experience. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Cupid Dust
ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a game-changer. I love how I can adjust the skip intervals. Itβs perfect for my listening style. Iβm 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!
Baked ZD
I love that I can switch between devices seamlessly and continue where I left off. Streamlined audiobook integration β this app's usability is impressive. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Racy Lion
The app's reliability and ease of use make it a true gem in the world of audiobooks. With this app, I can devour books like never before β it's incredibly efficient. Seamless audiobook integration β this app's design is a true delight. Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience.
Grinch Cheese
I'm constantly amazed by the vast selection β there's always something new to discover. ListenBook has made my daily walks so much more enjoyable. I'm always learning now! Bookmarks are a must-have for any audiobook lover. They help me stay organized and engaged. Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment. ListenBook is a game-changer for audiobook lovers. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Brick Mooch
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay makes my daily commute a delightful opportunity to indulge in audiobooks. Audiobook pleasure without the fuss β this app's functionality is top-notch.
Alley Fiend
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. I'm blown away by the quality of narration on this app β it's like being in the story. ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience. Excellent support for various audio formats. Very satisfied.
Trash Pocky
I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed β it's my form of meditation. I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in books through this app. π Who needs TV when you have this app? Every moment is a storytelling session! πΊπ§ ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is seamless. I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks during commutes and workouts. ListenBook Pro has taken my audiobook experience to the next level. No regrets!
Roller Turtle
Audiobook multitasking made easy β this app's functionality is a marvel. I'm blown away by the app's performance. It's fast, reliable, and tailored for audiobook lovers. Auto-rewind feature is very useful. Excellent app! Iβve been using ListenBook for months, and itβs been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesnβt drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Slacker Cat
The app's intuitive design makes it easy to find and listen to my favorite authors. I can't believe how easy it is to download and manage my audio content using ListenBook. Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient β it's like having a personal narrator. ListenBookβs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches. I love how I can adjust the skip intervals. Itβs perfect for my listening style.
Winded On Friday
This app's convenience has made reading a consistent part of my life. ππ Road trips have never been this entertaining β this app keeps me engaged on the highway! ππ π Ironing has become a joy with audiobooks β wrinkles are no match for these captivating stories! ππ§ ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats is impressive. From MP3 to FLAC, it handles them all flawlessly. The app's compatibility with CarPlay enhances my driving experience. Audiobooks on the road have never been better.
Lilac Lizard
πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ βοΈ Turning mundane tasks into exciting adventures β this app makes folding laundry a breeze with audiobooks! ππ§ πΆββοΈπ Embracing audiobooks as my companions during leisurely walks β nature and narratives, a perfect match! πΆββοΈπ§ Seamless audiobook integration β this app's functionality is a technological marvel.
Solo Kill
Configurable auto-rewind is genius. No more confusion when I pause and resume. The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
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