Book description
A legendary editor's reckoning with the twentieth-century novel and the urgent messages it sends. "How can we live differently?" a young woman urgently demands in Virginia Woolf's novel The Years. The scene is set in the 1930s, war and death are in the air, but the question was asked again and again in the course of a century when things changed fast and changed all the time. The century brought world wars, revolutions, automobiles, movies, and the internet, votes for women, death camps. The century brought questions. Novelists in the twentieth century had a question of their own: how can we write a novel as startling and unforeseen as the world we live in? Again and again they did, transforming the novel as the century remade the world. Imagine the history of the twentieth-century novel recounted with the urgency and intimacy of a novel. That's what Edwin Frank, the legendary editor who has run the New York Review Books publishing imprint since its inception, does in Stranger than Fiction. With penetrating insight and originality, Frank introduces us to books, some famous, some little-known, from the whole course of the century and from around the world. Starting with Dostoevsky's Notes from Underground of 1864, Frank shows how its twitchy, self-undermining, and never-satisfied narrator established a voice that would echo through the coming century. He illuminates the political vision of H.G. Wells's science fiction, Colette and Andre Gide's subversions of traditional gender roles, and Gertrude Stein's untethering of the American sentence. He describes the monumental ambition of books such as Mrs. Dalloway, The Magic Mountain and The Man Without Qualities to rebuild a world of human possibility upon the ruins of World War I and explores how Japan's Natsume Soseki and Nigeria's Chinua Achebe broke open European models to reflect their own, distinct histories and experience. Here too are Vasily Grossman, Anna Banti, and Elsa Morante reckoning in specific ways with the traumas of World War II, while later chapters range from Marguerite Yourcenar and V. S. Naipaul to Gabriel Garc a Marquez and W.G. Sebald. The story as a whole is one of fearless, often reckless exploration, as well as unfathomable desolation. Throughout, we discover the power of the novel to reinvent itself, to find a way for itself, to live differently. Stranger than Fiction offers a new vision of the history and art of the novel and of a dark and dazzling time in whose light and shadow we still stand.SynopsisA Washington Post most anticipated fall bookA legendary editor's reckoning with the twentieth-century novel and the urgent messages it sends. "How can we live differently?" a young woman urgently demands in Virginia Woolf's novel The Years. It is the 1930s, war and death are in the air, but her question was asked again and again in the course of a century where things changed fast and changed all the time. The century brought world wars, revolutions, automobiles, movies, and the internet, votes for women, death camps. The century brought questions. Novelists in the twentieth century had a question of their own: how can we write a novel as startling and unforeseen as the world we live in? Again and again they did, transforming the novel as the century remade the world. Imagine the history of the twentieth-century novel recounted with the urgency and intimacy of a novel. That's what Edwin Frank, the legendary editor who has run the New York Review Books publishing imprint since its inception, does in Stranger than Fiction. With penetrating insight and originality, Frank introduces us to books, some famous, some little-known, from the whole course of the century and from around the world. Starting with Dostoevsky's Notes from Underground of 1864, Frank shows how its twitchy, self-undermining, and never-satisfied narrator established a voice that would echo through the coming century. He illuminates the political vision of H.G. Wells's science fiction, Colette and Andre Gide's subversions of traditional gender roles, and Gertrude Stein's untethering of the American sentence. He describes the monumental ambition of books such as Mrs. Dalloway, The Magic Mountain and The Man Without Qualities to rebuild a world of human possibility upon the ruins of World War I and explores how Japan's Natsume Sōseki and Nigeria's Chinua Achebe broke open European models to reflect their own, distinct histories and experience. Here too are Vasily Grossman, Anna Banti, and Elsa Morante reckoning in specific ways with the traumas of World War II, while later chapters range from Marguerite Yourcenar and V. S. Naipaul to Gabriel Garc a Marquez and W.G. Sebald. The story as a whole is one of fearless, often reckless exploration, as well as unfathomable desolation. Throughout, we discover the power of the novel to reinvent itself, to find a way for itself, to live differently. Stranger than Fiction offers a new vision of the history and art of the novel and of a dark and dazzling time in whose light and shadow we still stand.Synopsis"Convincing, idiosyncratic and often felicitous." --Alexandra Jabobs, The New York Times Book Review "Ambitious, intelligent, and happily unpretentious." --Louis Menand, The New Yorker A Washington Post most anticipated fall bookA legendary editor's reckoning with the twentieth-century novel and the urgent messages it sends. "How can we live differently?" a young woman urgently demands in Virginia Woolf's novel The Years. It is the 1930s, war and death are in the air, but her question was asked again and again in the course of a century where things changed fast and changed all the time. The century brought world wars, revolutions, automobiles, movies, and the internet, votes for women, death camps. The century brought questions. Novelists in the twentieth century had a question of their own: how can we write a novel as startling and unforeseen as the world we live in? Again and again they did, transforming the novel as the century remade the world. Imagine the history of the twentieth-century novel recounted with the urgency and intimacy of a novel. That's what Edwin Frank, the legendary editor who has run the New York Review Books publishing imprint since its inception, does in Stranger than Fiction. With penetrating insight and originality, Frank introduces us to books, some famous, some little-known, from the whole course of the century and from around the world. Starting with Dostoevsky's Notes from Underground of 1864, Frank shows how its twitchy, self-undermining, and never-satisfied narrator established a voice that would echo through the coming century. He illuminates the political vision of H.G. Wells's science fiction, Colette and Andre Gide's subversions of traditional gender roles, and Gertrude Stein's untethering of the American sentence. He describes the monumental ambition of books such as Mrs. Dalloway, The Magic Mountain and The Man Without Qualities to rebuild a world of human possibility upon the ruins of World War I and explores how Japan's Natsume Sōseki and Nigeria's Chinua Achebe broke open European models to reflect their own, distinct histories and experience. Here too are Vasily Grossman, Anna Banti, and Elsa Morante reckoning in specific ways with the traumas of World War II, while later chapters range from Marguerite Yourcenar and V. S. Naipaul to Gabriel Garc a Marquez and W.G. Sebald. The story as a whole is one of fearless, often reckless exploration, as well as unfathomable desolation. Throughout, we discover the power of the novel to reinvent itself, to find a way for itself, to live differently. Stranger than Fiction offers a new vision of the history and art of the novel and of a dark and dazzling time in whose light and shadow we still stand.SynopsisOne of the Washington Post's 50 Best Nonfiction Books of 2024 A New York Times Book Review Editors' Choice "Ambitious, intelligent, and happily unpretentious." --Louis Menand, The New Yorker "Convincing, idiosyncratic and often felicitous." --Alexandra Jabobs, The New York Times Book ReviewA legendary editor's reckoning with the twentieth-century novel and the urgent messages it sends. "How can we live differently?" a young woman urgently demands in Virginia Woolf's novel The Years. It is the 1930s, war and death are in the air, but her question was asked again and again in the course of a century where things changed fast and changed all the time. The century brought world wars, revolutions, automobiles, movies, and the internet, votes for women, death camps. The century brought questions. Novelists in the twentieth century had a question of their own: how can we write a novel as startling and unforeseen as the world we live in? Again and again they did, transforming the novel as the century remade the world. Imagine the history of the twentieth-century novel recounted with the urgency and intimacy of a novel. That's what Edwin Frank, the legendary editor who has run the New York Review Books publishing imprint since its inception, does in Stranger than Fiction. With penetrating insight and originality, Frank introduces us to books, some famous, some little-known, from the whole course of the century and from around the world. Starting with Dostoevsky's Notes from Underground of 1864, Frank shows how its twitchy, self-undermining, and never-satisfied narrator established a voice that would echo through the coming century. He illuminates the political vision of H.G. Wells's science fiction, Colette and Andre Gide's subversions of traditional gender roles, and Gertrude Stein's untethering of the American sentence. He describes the monumental ambition of books such as Mrs. Dalloway, The Magic Mountain and The Man Without Qualities to rebuild a world of human possibility upon the ruins of World War I and explores how Japan's Natsume Sōseki and Nigeria's Chinua Achebe broke open European models to reflect their own, distinct histories and experience. Here too are Vasily Grossman, Anna Banti, and Elsa Morante reckoning in specific ways with the traumas of World War II, while later chapters range from Marguerite Yourcenar and V. S. Naipaul to Gabriel Garc a Marquez and W.G. Sebald. The story as a whole is one of fearless, often reckless exploration, as well as unfathomable desolation. Throughout, we discover the power of the novel to reinvent itself, to find a way for itself, to live differently. Stranger than Fiction offers a new vision of the history and art of the novel and of a dark and dazzling time in whose light and shadow we still stand.
MuseMaster
Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. Audiobooks made delightful – this app's usability is a breath of fresh air. Love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
RoarSweetie
I've become an audiobook addict, all thanks to this amazing app. I'm addicted to this app's ability to turn mundane moments into opportunities for intellectual growth.
StarZen
Looping playback of a single track helps me master difficult concepts. So helpful! Looping playback helps me immerse myself in the content. It's my secret study weapon.
Howitzer Rise
Audiobooks have transformed my daily walks into a time of inspiration and learning. I can't get enough of this app's convenience – it has turned my audiobook journey into a delightful habit. 💼 Merging work and pleasure – audiobooks keep me company during house admin tasks! 💻🎧 🏡 Making house chores more enjoyable – audiobooks help me stay engaged while tidying up the living space. 🏠📚 Effortlessly enjoying audiobook journeys – this app's ease of use is a winner.
Scooby Did
Language courses on audiobooks helped me pick up a new language effortlessly. The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature elevates my listening experience, allowing me to focus on the content. 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!
Sugar Man
Audiobook immersion without fuss – this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook's audio filters are a valuable tool for customizing my audiobook playback to perfection. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share stories and connect with friends. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections. Binaural audio processing really helps reduce fatigue.
Troublemasher
Audiobooks on this app have made my workouts more enjoyable and productive. 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.
The Beekeeper
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DragonBlood
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MindfulMingle
The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
King Bass
ListenBook has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again – it's a must-have app. ListenBook is like a personal audiobook library in my pocket. Organized and easily accessible.
Digger
I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. 💼 Juggling tasks while exploring narratives – this app is my multitasking hero! 💻📖 The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care.
Rando Tank
📱 It's like having a personal audiobook library at my fingertips! This app's functionality is a dream come true for book lovers. 📚🔥 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand, transforming noisy environments into serene listening spaces. The attention to detail is commendable. Artwork and metadata are sorted automatically.
Black Hole Necromancer
The fact that ListenBook doesn't just play, but enhances audio quality, is truly remarkable. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, making even the busiest days enjoyable. Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a true standout. The app's compatibility with various sources for audio download is a true time-saver.
Criss Cross
I've become so much more productive while cleaning or exercising – thanks to this app! The 'Discover' section is a treasure trove for finding hidden literary gems. ListenBook's variety of ways to download audio makes it incredibly convenient. 🚗📖 On-the-go listening has never been smoother – this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. 🚗📚
Tall Honey
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic – what a win! ListenBook's dedication to delivering high-quality sound and user-friendly features has won me over. This app's convenience has revolutionized the way I experience books. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. It's like getting a clear, immersive listening experience.
Mud Finger
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is a game-changer.
High Deck
ListenBook's extensive library and user-friendly interface have made it my go-to app. Bookmarking my favorite parts of audiobooks is now a breeze. Love this feature! The app's versatility in audio downloading is unmatched. It's a comprehensive solution for my audiobook needs.
Zesty Dragon
Audiobooks have become a cherished part of my daily life, all thanks to this app. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. It’s a fun feature.
Flash Protein
The ability to highlight passages and take notes while listening is a fantastic feature. This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits – truly impressive. is a breeze. It's incredibly convenient for building my collection. Downloading over WiFi is quick and efficient. Saves a lot of time.
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