Book description
The hard work required to make God real, how it changes the people who do it, and why it helps explain the enduring power of faith How do gods and spirits come to feel vividly real to people--as if they were standing right next to them? Humans tend to see supernatural agents everywhere, as the cognitive science of religion has shown. But it isn't easy to maintain a sense that there are invisible spirits who care about you. In How God Becomes Real, acclaimed anthropologist and scholar of religion T. M. Luhrmann argues that people must work incredibly hard to make gods real and that this effort--by changing the people who do it and giving them the benefits they seek from invisible others--helps to explain the enduring power of faith. Drawing on ethnographic studies of evangelical Christians, pagans, magicians, Zoroastrians, Black Catholics, Santeria initiates, and newly orthodox Jews, Luhrmann notes that none of these people behave as if gods and spirits are simply there. Rather, these worshippers make strenuous efforts to create a world in which invisible others matter and can become intensely present and real. The faithful accomplish this through detailed stories, absorption, the cultivation of inner senses, belief in a porous mind, strong sensory experiences, prayer, and other practices. Along the way, Luhrmann shows why faith is harder than belief, why prayer is a metacognitive activity like therapy, why becoming religious is like getting engrossed in a book, and much more. A fascinating account of why religious practices are more powerful than religious beliefs, How God Becomes Real suggests that faith is resilient not because it provides intuitions about gods and spirits--but because it changes the faithful in profound ways.
Feral Cookie
The intuitive interface and seamless navigation make this app a joy to use. No more worries about compatibility – ListenBook handles numerous formats flawlessly. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
Hightower
I'm grateful for ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats, making it a one-stop solution for audio content. ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for learning and enjoyment.
Drop Stone
ListenBook has become my go-to app for all things audio – from lectures to speeches, it's got it all. ListenBook's versatility and user-friendly interface make it a must-have for audiobook lovers. Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient – it's like having a personal narrator. Audiobook journey simplified – this app's functionality is a wonderful surprise. Automated artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook collection.
Flash Protein
I'm impressed by how much more I'm learning through audiobooks compared to traditional reading. This app's efficient downloading process ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks whenever and wherever. The app is worth every penny. It’s packed with features and works flawlessly.
RedFeet
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. 🌟 Transforming laundry time into a journey through fantastic stories – thank you, this app! 👚📖 I love the ability to change the playback pitch. It’s a unique feature.
Jester
Thanks for making my daily commute to work enjoyable and engaging! ListenBook has made me fall in love with my audio content all over again – it's a must-have. With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. High-quality playback even with complex formats like FLAC. Impressive!
Lightening Trip
This app's dedication to providing high-quality narration has made all the difference. 🌟 Who needs a dull commute when you can embark on literary journeys with this app? 🚗📖
Scare Stone
I'm blown away by ListenBook's ability to play diverse formats flawlessly – it's a game-changer. Finally, an app that values usability – navigating and listening is a breeze! A decent listen overall. The narration was clear, though some character voices sounded similar. The story was interesting but had moments where it dragged slightly. Still, it was a good way to pass the time.
Hex Panther
🧘♀️☕ Sipping tea and getting lost in stories – the ultimate way to unwind! 🍵📖 ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care.
Miss Murder
The 'Explore' feature has introduced me to authors I might never have discovered otherwise. This app's intuitive controls and user-friendly layout have made audiobook listening a true pleasure. My long walks have turned into exciting adventures with this app. Tone adjustment is such a unique feature. It's like customizing the narrator's voice. The audio quality is excellent, and the interface is intuitive. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
Jo Jo Spooky
I'm absolutely in love with this app! The interface is so intuitive and user-friendly. This app's ease of use has made reading a seamless part of my daily routine.
Metal Star
This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine – it's a habit I cherish. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis. ListenBook’s interface is sleek and user-friendly. Finding and playing my audiobooks has never been easier.
Bleachers
⭐️ Kudos to the developers for creating an app that's both functional and user-friendly. I can navigate and enjoy my books effortlessly. 📚👏 Book groups help me keep series together and navigate my collection more efficiently. A great feature! The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting. 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!
PixelPioneer
I love how this app turns even the dullest tasks into exciting storytelling moments. Gone are the days of waiting for the right time to read – this app is always ready. Simplifying my reading routine – this app's ease of use is remarkable. ListenBook's tone adjustment feature in the Pro version is a creative tool that adds a fun twist to my audiobook journey.
PixelPathfinder
This app has transformed my long flights into productive and enjoyable experiences. I'm addicted to this app – it's a non-stop journey through captivating tales. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is amazing. ListenBook is top-notch. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
ManManMan
The download options are versatile, making it a breeze to get my favorite audiobooks on the go. ListenBook has rekindled my passion for learning. I'm exploring new topics every day. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly. Very convenient.
Fuzzy Rainbow
Audiobooks have made my long drives enjoyable, and this app is my co-pilot. Audiobooks made accessible – this app's ease of use is a true blessing. I love the auto-bookmark feature. It saves my place automatically. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. 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!
Aqua Monsoon
I appreciate how ListenBook offers various methods for downloading audio – it caters to different preferences. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is fantastic. User-centric audiobook joy – this app's ease of use is a true marvel.
xSTORMx
I can now explore books beyond my preferred genre, broadening my reading horizons. I've found solace and relaxation in the pages of countless audiobooks. Adjustable playback speed is a fantastic feature. It allows me to customize my listening experience.
Essex
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audio needs are met. 📱 Turning my phone into a portal of endless stories – this app is pure magic! 📚✨ ListenBook's attention to detail in design and functionality sets it apart from other audiobook apps. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has transformed the audio quality. It's crystal clear now. I appreciate the statistics feature. ListenBook helps me track my listening habits.
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