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 It is a liberating manifesto that says, Let's leave the outdated modes behind and, in thinking of new modes, bring feeling back to experimentation.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.
Black Walnut
I love that I can switch between fiction and non-fiction effortlessly. The ability to switch between different books effortlessly is a major plus. Audiobook enthusiasts, gather round! This app's remarkable features, including audio filters and compatibility, have transformed my commutes into captivating journeys. 🎉🎧 The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained.
Innocent Ghost
This app has added a new layer of enjoyment to my downtime – I'm truly grateful. ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience. ListenBook has become my workout companion of choice. It keeps me motivated and entertained during exercise. Middle-of-the-road experience. The audiobook was fine—good narration, decent story—but it didn’t leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for something low-commitment, this works.
Bit Sentinel
This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine – it's a habit I cherish. This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
Bom Crossed
With this app, I've turned my everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. 💼 Boosting productivity at work with an audiobook in the background – love it! 💻🎧 Simplifying my audiobook experience – this app's design is remarkable. ListenBook's interface is so intuitive. I was up and running in no time.
Gothic Slacker
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook has made me fall in love with my audio content all over again – it's a must-have. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections. A functional audiobook production that met basic requirements. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough to listen to for extended periods, though their performance didn't add much interpretation to the text. The audio engineering was competent without being remarkable.
RZRWRE
The variety of narrators adds a unique touch to each book, making every experience special. The minimalist interface and intuitive settings make for an amazing user experience. ListenBook is my daily companion, turning mundane tasks into exciting audio adventures. Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's ease of use is a true asset. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Shadow Chaser
Mood-based playlists help me choose books that suit my current state of mind. This audiobook app is a true gem – it brings stories to life with every click. This app's sleek design and effortless controls have made audiobook listening an immersive experience. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌
Maple Destroyer
The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver. Tone adjustment is such an innovative feature. It adds a personal touch to narration. Great for listening to lectures and educational content. Very useful! The import process is seamless. I had no trouble adding my audiobooks.
Howitzer Rise
The 'Discover' section is a treasure trove for finding hidden literary gems. Kudos to the app for making literature accessible to those with busy schedules. The ability to adjust playback speed is a game-changer for faster or more immersive listening. With this app, reading is no longer a luxury – it's a convenient habit. This app's convenience has turned me into an avid audiobook listener.
TeederSmartie
This app has rekindled my passion for literature in a whole new way. I can't stop raving about this app – it's like having a personal library in my pocket. The convenience of downloading audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer.
Mr. Spy
Gone are the days of straining my eyes to read – this app lets me 'read' with my ears, anywhere, anytime. Drag and drop downloads directly from my web browser? That's a level of convenience I appreciate.
Dandelion
With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of literature during my daily walks – it's truly invigorating. Who knew that commuting could become such an enjoyable reading session? CUE playlist support is a rare gem. Perfect for organizing content efficiently. I love how I can create playlists. It’s perfect for organizing my books.
VisionVoyager
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my audio content much more enjoyable in noisy environments. This app has made my road trips and flights infinitely more enjoyable. 🏝️ Soaking up the sun with an audiobook by my side – beach days just got better! 🏖️📖
Chip Queen
I can't imagine my daily routine without ListenBook's intuitive layout and easy-to-access controls. I'm amazed by how this app effortlessly turns my daily routines into enjoyable learning sessions. 📚 Ironing has become a joy with audiobooks – wrinkles are no match for these captivating stories! 👗🎧 Bookmarks are a must-have for any audiobook lover. They help me stay organized and engaged.
Stallion Patton
This app has rekindled my love for literature, and I'm spreading the word to everyone I know. 🎉📚 This app has rekindled my love for books – I can't stop listening! 🚀🎧 Binaural audio processing is a game-changer – my ears stay comfortable during long listening sessions. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app.
Show Boat
🚶♀️🎧 Walking has never been this productive – exploring new worlds while I exercise! 🏞️💫 🚶♀️📖 Exploring stories as I stroll – audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. 🏞️🎧
Amphibi-Dangerous
The auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that enhances my listening journey. I appreciate it! A textbook example of great audiobook narration! The performer's diction was flawless, their pacing ideal, and their emotional range impressive. I never felt like I was being "read to" but rather like I was experiencing the story firsthand. The audio engineering was equally professional.
QuantumQuill
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. This app has made my workouts and chores so much more enjoyable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality, providing a clear and immersive listening experience that enhances my enjoyment.
WonderWords
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one app. Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's ease of use is a true asset. From novels to speeches, this app's versatility in playing different formats has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary listening sessions. 📱🔊 ListenBook's audio filters are a valuable tool for customizing my audiobook playback to perfection. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with it—the narration was fine, and the story was okay—but nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
CoB@lt
No more worries about compatibility – ListenBook handles numerous formats flawlessly. 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!
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