Book description
Nassim Nicholas Taleb's The Black Swan isn't just a book-it's a mental reset, and the audiobook format makes it feel like a conversation with a brilliantly infuriating friend who won't let you ignore how wrong you are. Taleb, a former trader turned philosopher of uncertainty, dismantles our cozy illusions about predicting the future. He argues that history isn't shaped by the predictable, but by rare, high-impact events we call "black swans"-like the rise of Google or 9/11-which we only understand after they happen, weaving tidy stories to pretend we saw them coming.
What makes the audio experience so powerful is Taleb's voice: sharp, irreverent, and brimming with the confidence of someone who's watched markets collapse and survived. You hear him chuckle at our tendency to overestimate knowledge ("We're all amateur historians of the future!"), and his storytelling-like the tale of the turkey that never imagined slaughter day-lands with visceral impact. The second edition's new essay, "On Robustness and Fragility," isn't just an add-on; it's a practical toolkit for thriving in chaos, delivered with his trademark blend of wit and rigor.
Taleb doesn't just explain why we miss black swans-we're wired to focus on the familiar, not the impossible. He exposes how we mistake noise for signal, how we reward those who narrate the past but ignore those who imagine the future. You'll realize your own life is full of these blind spots: the career shift you never planned, the pandemic that upended everything. The audiobook's pacing lets his ideas breathe, turning complex concepts like "narrative fallacy" into something you feel, not just read.
This isn't a textbook. It's a wake-up call disguised as a rant, delivered with the energy of a man who's seen too many "impossible" things happen. You won't just understand black swans-you'll start spotting them in your own world. And Taleb's final point? True wisdom isn't about predicting the future, but building systems that thrive when it surprises you. The audio version makes you feel like you're in the room with him, arguing over coffee, realizing how much you've been wrong all along. It's not just a great book-it's a necessary one.
Old Regret
ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its user-friendly interface and smooth playback. ListenBook's library organization and book groups make managing my collection effortless. This app's compatibility with various devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. I appreciate the dark mode option. It’s easy on the eyes during nighttime listening. I’m blown away by how feature-rich ListenBook is. From the customizable themes to the car mode, everything is designed with the user in mind. The app works flawlessly, and I’ve had zero issues with crashes or bugs. Highly recommend!
Scooby Did
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. The user-friendly interface and precise controls make listening to audiobooks an absolute delight. Auto-rewind feature is a lifesaver. I never lose my place! The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze. Fairly enjoyable, but forgettable. I didn’t have any major complaints, but I also don’t see myself revisiting this one. It was a decent way to spend a few hours, though.
Twix Esses
Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. It transforms the way I enjoy my recordings. Quick access to chapters and controls ensures a seamless listening experience with ListenBook. It's effortless to use.
Noisy Girl
Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. I'm amazed at how this app has turned my errands into exciting reading sessions.
German Coach
ListenBook's support for binaural audio processing is a thoughtful touch that reduces listening fatigue. The ease of downloading content via WiFi, WebDAV, and more has made ListenBook my audiobook hub. Audiobooks on demand – this app's functionality is a true technological gem. Say goodbye to monotony – this app's diverse format support and intuitive controls have turned my daily activities into thrilling audiobook adventures. 📱🔊
Lady Pomegranate
I'm hooked on this app – it's my escape to different worlds and adventures. ListenBook has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again – it's a must-have app. 🎉 Rekindling my love for reading – this app has reintroduced me to the joy of books in a whole new way. 📚🔥 ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs.
Saber-RED
I've never been this excited about my daily commute – thank you, audiobooks! ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. 💼 Making every minute count – this app's ease of use ensures I'm always making progress in my audiobook adventures. 📱📖 Effortless audiobook exploration – this app's functionality is a true delight.
Wild Tesla
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my life so much easier. 🎙️ Elevating grocery shopping to a whole new level – audiobooks make it an adventure! 🛒📚 ListenBook’s interface is beautiful and functional. It’s my favorite app for audiobooks. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Dora the Destroyer
Seamless integration with all my devices and flawless synchronization – top-notch. ListenBook has given me a renewed appreciation for audio content – it's my new favorite app. 🌟 Elevating everyday moments – this app adds an extra layer of magic to every aspect of my day. 📚✨ The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Judge
ListenBook's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality is evident in every detail. The ability to adjust playback speed is a fantastic study aid. I'm absorbing information faster than ever. Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment.
Lime
I've discovered authors I'd never heard of before, and now they're among my favorites. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I go. The statistics tracking feature is eye-opening. I never realized how much time I spend on audiobooks until now! No more hassle with file conversion. This app handles all formats effortlessly.
Winded On Friday
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Bazooka Har-de-har
Audiobooks on the go – this app's design prioritizes convenience. The download options are versatile, making it a breeze to get my favorite audiobooks on the go. Binaural audio reduces listening fatigue. Such a great feature!
Granola
This app has turned even my mundane tasks into exciting learning opportunities. ListenBook has transformed my daily rituals into cherished opportunities for personal growth. 🎧 Satiate your reading cravings while managing household affairs – this app has it all! 📚💼 Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It enhances the audio quality and makes listening comfortable. Finally, an app that supports all my audiobook formats! ListenBook is a game-changer.
Miss Lucky
The family subscription option is a money-saver – everyone gets to enjoy their favorite books. Thanks for making my daily commute to work enjoyable and engaging! This app is my secret weapon for staying entertained during mundane tasks. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant companion for literary adventures. I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
Trash Master
ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for personal growth. 🎉 This app has ignited my passion for reading – I can't get enough of its convenience! 📚🔥 📚 Embracing a new reading habit with this app's seamless accessibility. Say goodbye to boredom! 📱🎉 Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features.
Patton Digger
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. Audiobooks made easy – this app's functionality is truly a gift. Finally, an app that lets me enjoy audiobooks without worrying about file formats!
360
I've found solace and relaxation in the pages of countless audiobooks. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. ListenBook has transformed my daily rituals into cherished opportunities for personal growth. This app's convenience has transformed my reading habits – it's a game-changer. A masterclass in audiobook narration! The performer maintained perfect consistency in character voices throughout while keeping the main narration clear and engaging. The production was flawless - no weird edits or background noise. I'll be seeking out more works by this narrator.
Gas Man
🚗📖 Transforming traffic jams into opportunities for literary exploration – this app keeps me engaged on the road! 🚗🎧 🚶♀️📱 I'm exploring new worlds while on the move, all thanks to this app's seamless functionality. 🏞️📚 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!
Mother Hen
ListenBook has become my go-to app for all things audio – from lectures to speeches, it's got it all. This app's convenience has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again. 🎙️ Grocery shopping has taken an exciting turn – I'm on a mission to explore new worlds through audiobooks! 🛒📚 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
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