Book description
"How lovely to discover a book on the craft of writing that is also fun to read . . . Alison asserts that the best stories follow patterns in nature, and by defining these new styles she offers writers the freedom to explore but with enough guidance to thrive." ―Maris Kreizman, Vulture A Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2019 A Poets & Writers Best Books for Writers As Jane Alison writes in the introduction to her insightful and appealing book about the craft of writing: "For centuries there's been one path through fiction we're most likely to travel― one we're actually told to follow―and that's the dramatic arc: a situation arises, grows tense, reaches a peak, subsides . . . But something that swells and tautens until climax, then collapses? Bit masculosexual, no? So many other patterns run through nature, tracing other deep motions in life. Why not draw on them, too?" W. G. Sebald's Emigrants was the first novel to show Alison how forward momentum can be created by way of pattern, rather than the traditional arc--or, in nature, wave. Other writers of nonlinear prose considered in her "museum of specimens" include Nicholson Baker, Anne Carson, Marguerite Duras, Gabriel García Márquez, Jamaica Kincaid, Clarice Lispector, Susan Minot, David Mitchell, Caryl Phillips, and Mary Robison. Meander, Spiral, Explode is a singular and brilliant elucidation of literary strategies that also brings high spirits and wit to its original conclusions. It is a liberating manifesto that says, Let's leave the outdated modes behind and, in thinking of new modes, bring feeling back to experimentation. It will appeal to serious readers and writers alike.
Dahlia
Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. 📚📱 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature simplifies the process of adding new audiobooks to my collection. This audiobook exceeded all my expectations! The narrator's ability to convey emotion through voice alone was remarkable. I laughed, I gasped, I might have even teared up at points - all because of the incredible vocal performance. The story came alive in a way reading alone couldn't achieve.
MysticMingle
I love that I can switch between devices seamlessly and continue where I left off. The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. With ListenBook, I've found a convenient and enjoyable way to engage with audiobooks and educational content. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌 Library organization and book groups make managing my audiobook collection a breeze.
Prof. Smirk
I've never been so entertained while doing household chores – this app is a lifesaver! This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience. 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! An unobjectionable but unexceptional audiobook experience. The narrator's performance was serviceable and the audio quality was fine, but nothing about the production particularly stood out or elevated the material. It was decent background listening.
Dangle
ListenBook's support for chapters and bookmarks ensures that I never lose my place in a story. Thanks to ListenBook's automatic extraction of artwork and metadata, my library looks organized and appealing. The tone adjustment feature is an exciting touch, allowing me to immerse myself even more in the content.
Terror Master
I've been able to tackle my reading list like never before, thanks to this app. Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is truly impressive. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting.
Venom Charms
I've become a loyal fan of audiobooks, and this app is the reason why! The convenience of having a library at my fingertips is unparalleled. is a breeze with ListenBook. It's convenient and reliable.
Guillotine
I've found my new favorite way to relax – cuddled up with an audiobook. Audiobooks have become my go-to gift for friends – and they all love it! Audiobook pleasure simplified – this app's design is a true winner. Kudos to the developers for crafting an app that understands readers' needs. The smooth playback and sleek design are pure perfection. 📚👏
Sassy Muffin
Tone adjustment adds a personalized touch to the narration, making the audiobook experience even more immersive. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
Spooky Electric
Frequent updates ensure there's always something new and exciting to listen to. Audiobooks have turned my mundane activities into opportunities for learning and enjoyment. I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates into my life, enhancing every moment with stories. The app's performance is remarkable – it's fast, stable, and designed to cater to audiobook enthusiasts. It's a pleasure to use. Downloading over WiFi saves so much time. Very efficient.
Take Away
Looping playback is a fantastic study tool. It helps me focus and retain information effectively. Auto-rewind is a very handy feature. Excellent app.
Journeyman
I'm blown away by ListenBook's ability to play diverse formats flawlessly – it's a game-changer. ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work! An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
Lounge Master
I'm so grateful for this app – it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. ListenBook has become my constant companion, filling my days with captivating narratives. The app's support for different audio formats is like a dream come true for audiophiles. Looping playback is my favorite feature. It's perfect for revisiting complex content.
Spitfire
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch has made my listening experience even more seamless. Audiobook excellence made simple – this app's functionality is a true asset. Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. The narrator's voice was like butter - smooth, rich, and utterly pleasant to listen to for hours. They handled complex sentences with ease, making even dense material accessible. I never had to rewind because I missed something due to unclear delivery. Perfection!
InsightInkwell
With ListenBook, I've found a reliable and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. 🌟 Embracing reading in the busiest of times – this app is my everyday escape! 📚🏃♀️ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. ListenBook's versatility with various audio formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from multiple sources effortlessly.
GiddeeUP
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one convenient app. ListenBook has reignited my love for storytelling and learning, one audio file at a time. ListenBook has redefined the way I experience stories, turning every moment into an adventure. This app's convenience has transformed my reading habits – it's a game-changer.
Frosty Squid
Finally, a way to enjoy literature on the go without straining my eyes. The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. This app's ease of use has made my daily activities more enjoyable and educational. Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized.
Corny
💡 This app truly understands the needs of audiobook enthusiasts – it delivers an effortless and enjoyable listening experience. 📚🎧 Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature!
Marshmallow Treat
ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve found. The interface is clean and easy to use. One of the best audiobooks I’ve heard! The story was compelling, and the narrator’s delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Athena Star
Sharing audiobooks with friends is so easy with AirDrop. It's a great way to spread happiness. ListenBook's versatility with various audio formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from multiple sources effortlessly.
Pearl Girl
Seamless integration with all my devices and flawless synchronization – top-notch. This app is my secret to staying ahead on my reading list, even during my busiest days. Auto-rewind feature is very useful. Excellent app! 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!
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