Book description
Let's be honest: we've all been doomscrolling through climate reports while ignoring the actual apocalypse happening in our own backyards. Susan Beth Pfeffer's Life As We Knew It doesn't just tap into that anxiety-it weaponizes it. And the audiobook? It's like Miranda's panic attack is happening directly in your ear, whispered with the raw, shaky voice of someone who just realized their entire life is about to be replaced by a giant, angry moon.
Don't let the "YA" label fool you. This isn't a rom-com with zombies. It's a masterclass in quiet terror, told through Miranda's journal entries that feel ripped straight from a real teenager's phone-except now, her phone's dead, and the sun's gone dark. The audiobook nails this. You hear the exhaustion in her voice when she writes, "Mom's coughing again," or the desperate hope when she scribbles, "Maybe the sun will come back tomorrow." It's not dramatic; it's devastatingly ordinary. And that's the point.
Pfeffer doesn't need explosions to make you sweat. The real horror is in the mundane: rationing canned peaches, arguing over who gets the last blanket, realizing your "safe room" is just a sunroom with a wood stove and a lot of fear. The audiobook's pacing is perfect-slow, deliberate, like Miranda's own slow-motion descent into a world that's no longer hers. You'll find yourself checking your own windows, half-expecting a meteor to knock the moon loose while you're mid-sip of coffee.
And here's the genius: it's not about the apocalypse. It's about how we survive the after-the grief, the guilt, the sheer, exhausting work of holding onto hope when everything's burning. Pfeffer makes you feel Miranda's exhaustion, her anger at her stupid teenage problems, and the terrifying weight of realizing your parents are just as scared as you are. The audiobook doesn't just tell you this; it makes you live it. You'll laugh at Miranda's sarcasm ("Mom's making soup. Again. Like we've never eaten soup before") and then immediately feel your throat tighten.
So yeah, this book's a bit of a gut punch. But it's the kind of gut punch that makes you look up from your phone, check on your own family, and finally admit: maybe we should've stocked up on more canned beans. And honestly? After listening to Miranda's voice crack through the audio, you'll never take a sunny day for granted again. It's not just a survival story-it's a reminder that hope isn't loud. It's the quiet, stubborn voice saying, "We're still here." And that's the most terrifying, beautiful thing of all.
Mr. 44
Savoring audiobooks without complications – this app's design is top-notch. Beautiful layout and easy access to chapters. Really impressed with ListenBook. ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace. This audiobook spoiled me for others! The narrator's professional delivery set a high bar - perfect diction, ideal pacing, and emotional authenticity. The recording quality was equally impressive with no distracting artifacts. I finished it far too quickly because I couldn't stop listening.
Trash
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a unique feature that adds a personal touch to my listening. Effortlessly enjoying audiobooks on the go – kudos to this app's functionality. Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is impressive. ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. My workouts have become more enjoyable and productive with ListenBook's compatibility with Apple Watch.
CommandX
I'm amazed by ListenBook's smooth drag-and-drop downloads in my web browser – a time-saver! The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening.
Snowflake Pixie
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature elevates my listening experience, allowing me to focus on the content. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique tool that adds a touch of creativity to my listening experience.
Kitchen
This app has rekindled my passion for literature in a whole new way. Effortlessly switching between stories – this app's ease of use is impressive. Finally, an app that respects my busy lifestyle. Whether I'm commuting or exercising, this app's smooth playback and smart controls keep me engaged. 🏃♀️🎧 Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends, sparking engaging conversations and connections that transcend boundaries. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information.
RiddleRover
🎶📚 Replacing melodies with literary symphonies – my ears are in love! 🎵📚 Audiobooks have never been this accessible and enjoyable. This app's compatibility with various formats and its emphasis on user experience have made it an essential tool for me. 📱🔊 I can't get enough of the app's sleek interface and intuitive controls. It's a joy to use! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to inspire others to read. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
InsightInkwell
This app's user-friendly layout and quick access to controls have made audiobook listening a breeze. Effortless and enriching – that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features have set the bar high for audiobook enjoyment. 📱📖 ListenBook has made audiobook listening more convenient and enjoyable than ever before. ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use. Listened to this on a road trip and it made the hours fly by. Even my passengers who weren't following along commented on how nice the narrator's voice was.
Mr. Fabulous
The sleek design and easy navigation are visually pleasing and user-friendly. Effortlessly managing my audiobook collection – this app's functionality is a winner. Looping playback helps me focus on challenging content and grasp complex concepts. A study must-have!
Tough Nut
🎶📚 Tuning in to the symphony of stories – audiobooks are the soundtrack of my daily routines. 🎵📚 The book groups feature is a thoughtful addition. It helps me keep my series and related titles together. Organizing my audiobook library has never been easier. The app keeps everything tidy. ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks a breeze. The smooth playback and intuitive interface are unmatched.
Shady Lady
Thanks to ListenBook's automatic extraction of artwork and metadata, my library looks organized and appealing. I'm amazed at how this app has expanded my reading horizons. 📱 Turning my phone into a portal of endless stories – this app is pure magic! 📚✨ ListenBook Pro is totally worth it. Unlimited audiobook length – I'm in! I love the bookmarking feature. ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off.
Vicious Street
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay makes my daily commute a delightful opportunity to indulge in audiobooks. 🎧 An audiobook treasure trove in the palm of my hand – this app is pure convenience! 📚🌟 🎧 Immerse yourself in stories effortlessly – this app's functionality is the gateway to endless audiobook adventures. 📚🌟 With ListenBook, I've rediscovered my love for audiobooks. The binaural audio processing is a game-changer for comfortable, fatigue-free listening. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my library look organized and professional.
Beo
Navigating chapters and genres is a breeze with this app's functionality. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven. My workouts have become more enjoyable and productive with ListenBook's compatibility with Apple Watch. The app is so reliable. I’ve never had any issues with it.
Friday Fox
Book Groups on ListenBook make it easy to categorize and access my audiobooks. I'm impressed by the app's performance – it's stable, fast, and tailored for audiobook enthusiasts.
LifeRobber
ListenBook's seamless audio player has turned my listening sessions into moments of pure delight. ListenBook has become my workout companion of choice. It keeps me motivated and entertained during exercise. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly. Very convenient.
Bootleg Taximan
This audiobook app is an absolute lifesaver! It brings my favorite stories to life with unparalleled convenience. ListenBook's compatibility with a wide range of audio formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits.
Metal Star
This app is not just about convenience – it's a gateway to new horizons of knowledge. ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
AxelRoad
ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. Library organization has never been easier thanks to ListenBook. My collection is well-managed. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Devil Blade
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic – what a win! ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures I never miss out on any audio gem. Bookmarks are a must-have for any audiobook lover. They help me stay organized and engaged. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it. 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!
TrinitySoul
Audiobooks on this app have made my workouts more enjoyable and productive. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature elevates my listening experience, allowing me to focus on the content.
ThoughtTracer
ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
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