Book description
One of Japan's great modern masters, Kaoru Takamura, makes her English-language debut with this two-volume publication of her magnum opus. Tokyo, 1995. Five men meet at the racetrack every Sunday to bet on horses. They have little in common except a deep disaffection with their lives, but together they represent the social struggles and griefs of post-War Japan: a poorly socialized genius stuck working as a welder; a demoted detective with a chip on his shoulder; a Zainichi Korean banker sick of being ostracized for his race; a struggling single dad of a teenage girl with Down syndrome. The fifth man bringing them all together is an elderly drugstore owner grieving his grandson, who has died suspiciously after the revelation of a family connection with the segregated buraku community, historically subjected to severe discrimination. Intent on revenge against a society that values corporate behemoths more than human life, the five conspirators decide to carry out a heist: kidnap the CEO of Japan's largest beer conglomerate and extract blood money from the company's corrupt financiers. Inspired by the unsolved true-crime kidnapping case perpetrated by "the Monster with 21 Faces," Lady Joker has become a cultural touchstone since its 1997 publication, acknowledged as the magnum opus by one of Japan's literary masters, twice adapted for film and TV and often taught in high school and college classrooms.
Solitaire
I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed β it's my form of meditation. This app's convenience has turned my exercise sessions into enlightening moments. π₯ Simplifying my reading routine β the app's functionality ensures I'm always one click away from literary adventures. ππ Library organization and book groups make managing my audiobook collection a breeze. Supports a wide range of formats flawlessly. Very happy with it.
Kingfisher
This app has introduced me to authors I'd never heard of β now they're my favorites! ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative way to make each audiobook unique. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction makes sure that background distractions don't interfere with my listening. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
Sw33per
πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ Say goodbye to boring commutes β this app's immersive audio experience and intuitive controls have transformed my daily journeys. ππ The tone adjustment feature in ListenBook Pro is a novel addition that allows me to personalize my audiobook experience. I'm impressed with the wide range of supported formats. Finally, an app that plays all my audiobooks flawlessly.
Pocket Mazda
ListenBook has given me the gift of time β turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. πΆββοΈπ§ Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks β pure bliss! ποΈπ Tone adjustment is so cool. It's like customizing the reader's voice to my liking. Adjustable playback speed and volume control make for a customized experience.
McDreamy
The sheer variety of genres available ensures there's something for everyone. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. With this app, audiobook listening has become an integral part of my daily routines β it's pure bliss.
WanderWord
Audiobook journey simplified β this app's functionality is a wonderful surprise. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a creative feature. It allows for a unique and personalized experience. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
ThreadTraveler
Effortless and enriching β that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features redefine audiobook joy. π±π From novels to speeches, this app's versatility in playing different formats has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary listening sessions. π±π
Chlorine
The narrator's voice in some audiobooks is so soothing, it's like a spa for the ears. Audiobooks have become a cherished part of my daily life, all thanks to this app.
Jack Cassidy
ListenBook's variety of ways to download audio makes it incredibly convenient. I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives.
Pixie Soldier
I'm grateful for this app, as it allows me to keep up with my reading even while multitasking. I'm in awe of how this app has made reading a part of my busy life. I can't believe how seamless the integration with Apple Watch is. My workouts just got better.
Accidental Genius
πΆπ The harmony between simplicity and functionality in this app is truly impressive. Audiobooks have never sounded this good! π΅π§ ListenBook's sleek layout and quick chapter access have made my audiobook journey incredibly enjoyable. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Ladybird
Audiobooks have become my companions during daily chores, making them enjoyable. With this app, I can dive into captivating narratives while cooking, cleaning, or commuting β pure magic! I can't believe how much more I'm 'reading' now, thanks to this app.
Foot-long Fry
This app has given me the joy of reading even when my hands are full. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather round! This app's remarkable features, including audio filters and compatibility, have transformed my commutes into captivating journeys. ππ§
Rosie Bird
ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience so effortless. From downloading to playback, it's a true companion for book lovers. ππ« I'm amazed by the app's versatility in downloading audio. It accommodates various sources seamlessly. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my recordings sound clearer than ever. ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for learning and enjoyment.
Blue Despair
The app's recommendations are surprisingly accurate β it's like they know my taste perfectly! ListenBook is fantastic! Supports every audiobook format I have. Super convenient!
Kimono Goddess
ListenBook's support for network device downloads and drag-and-drop is a time-saving delight. ListenBook's innovation, seamless playback, and versatile features make it a standout app. ποΈ This app's user-friendly interface has transformed my daily walks into immersive storytelling sessions. Kudos to the developers! πΆββοΈπ The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy.
Fuzzy Logic Hottie
π This app is a testament to thoughtful design β its functionality seamlessly blends with my lifestyle, making reading effortless. πβ¨ Say goodbye to boring commutes β this app's immersive audio experience and intuitive controls have transformed my daily journeys. ππ I can't get enough of the binaural audio processing. It's like a breath of fresh air for my ears. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
MrOnsTr
An audiobook lover's dream come true. So many options, I'm in heaven! This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. The statistics feature in ListenBook adds an element of self-awareness to my audiobook consumption. Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature!
Peanut Butter Woman
Apple Watch compatibility enhances my audiobook experience. It's a convenient way to control playback. ListenBook has made my daily commutes so much more enjoyable. I look forward to listening every day!
Guillotine
Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of storytelling with friends. Looping playback helps me immerse myself in the content. It's my secret study weapon.
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