Book description
From the time she was young, Suleika Jaouad has kept a journal. She's used it to mark life's biggest occasions and to weather its most ferocious storms. Journaling has buoyed her through illness, heartbreak, and the deepest uncertainty. And she is not alone: for so many people, keeping a journal is an essential tool for navigating both the personal peaks and valleys and the collective challenges of modern life. More than ever, we need a space for puzzling through. In The Book of Alchemy, Suleika explores the art of journaling and shares everything she's learned about how this life-altering practice can help us tap into that mystical trait that exists in every human: creativity. She has gathered wisdom from one hundred writers, artists, and thinkers in the form of essays and writing prompts. Their insights invite us to inhabit a more inspired life. A companion through challenging times, The Book of Alchemy is broken into themes ranging from new beginnings to love, loss, and rebuilding. Whether you're a lifelong journaler or new to the practice, this book gives you the tools, direction, and encouragement to engage with discomfort, ask questions, peel back the layers, dream daringly, uncover your truest self--and in doing so, to learn to hold the unbearably brutal and astonishingly beautiful facts of life in the same palm. Also includes essays from: Martha Beck - Alain de Botton - Susan Cheever - Lena Dunham - Melissa Febos - Liana Finck - John Green - Marie Howe - Pico Iyer - Oliver Jeffers - Quintin Jones - Michael Koryta - Hanif Kureishi - Kiese Laymon - Cleyvis Natera - Ann Patchett - Esther Perel - Adrienne Raphel - Maggie Rogers - Jenny Rosenstrach - Sharon Salzberg - Dani Shapiro - Mavis Staples - Linda Sue Park - Nafissa Thompson-Spires - Jia Tolentino - Lindy West - Lidia Yuknavitch - And many othersReview"The Book of Alchemy proves on every page that a creative response can be found in every moment of life--regardless of what is happening in the world. It also demonstrates that we can be more creative together than we could ever be alone. This book is not only beautiful but exceedingly helpful. I recommend it to every dreamer, with the highest respect and joy." --Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat Pray Love "Beyond her brilliance as a writer, Suleika Jaouad's greatest offering to the world is her brilliance of generosity, her curiosity, her seeking heart and mind. The Book of Alchemy is an extension and expansion of these gifts, carefully curated and thoughtfully presented, it doesn't offer just one single answer, or one north star, but an entire galaxy. A path, with many paths springing forth from it, for anyone who wants to write, or chase an idea, or descend into their work with a newfound exuberance. This book is a gift." --Hanif Abdurraqib, author of There's Always This Year "Brilliant. Gentle. Encouraging. If you want to make your life richer, follow her lead. Suleika Jaouad is showing us how to find wisdom in every transition, graduation, and U-turn. The perfect mix of incandescent wisdom and kick-in-the-pants motivation to start your own creative journey." --Kate Bowler, author of Everything Happens for a ReasonSynopsisA guide to the art of journaling--and a meditation on the central questions of life--by the bestselling author of Between Two Kingdoms, with contributions from Hanif Abdurraqib, Jon Batiste, Salman Rushdie, Gloria Steinem, George Saunders, and many more "The Book of Alchemy proves on every page that a creative response can be found in every moment of life--regardless of what is happening in the world."--Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat Pray Love From the time she was young, Suleika Jaouad has kept a journal. She's used it to mark life's biggest occasions and to weather its most ferocious storms. Journaling has buoyed her through illness, heartbreak, and the deepest uncertainty. And she is not alone: for so many people, keeping a journal is an essential tool for navigating both the personal peaks and valleys and the collective challenges of modern life. More than ever, we need a space for puzzling through. In The Book of Alchemy, Suleika explores the art of journaling and shares everything she's learned about how this life-altering practice can help us tap into that mystical trait that exists in every human: creativity. She has gathered wisdom from one hundred writers, artists, and thinkers in the form of essays and writing prompts. Their insights invite us to inhabit a more inspired life. A companion through challenging times, The Book of Alchemy is broken into themes ranging from new beginnings to love, loss, and rebuilding. Whether you're a lifelong journaler or new to the practice, this book gives you the tools, direction, and encouragement to engage with discomfort, ask questions, peel back the layers, dream daringly, uncover your truest self--and in doing so, to learn to hold the unbearably brutal and astonishingly beautiful facts of life in the same palm. Also includes essays from: Martha Beck - Nadia Bolz-Weber - Alain de Botton - Susan Cheever - Lena Dunham - Melissa Febos - Liana Finck - John Green - Marie Howe - Pico Iyer - Oliver Jeffers - Quintin Jones - Michael Koryta - Hanif Kureishi - Kiese Laymon - Cleyvis Natera - Ann Patchett - Esther Perel - Adrienne Raphel - Jenny Rosenstrach - Sarah Ruhl - Sharon Salzberg - Dani Shapiro - Mavis Staples - Linda Sue Park - Nafissa Thompson-Spires - Jia Tolentino - Lindy West - Lidia Yuknavitch - And many othersAbout the AuthorSuleika Jaouad is the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir Between Two Kingdoms, which has been translated into more than twenty languages. She wrote the Emmy Award-winning New York Times column and video series "Life, Interrupted," and her essays and feature stories have appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic, The Guardian, and Vogue, among others. She is also the subject, along with husband Jon Batiste, of the Oscar-nominated documentary American Symphony--a portrait of two artists during a year of extreme highs and lows. A visual artist, her large-scale watercolors are the focus of several upcoming exhibitions. She is also the creator of the Isolation Journals, a weekly newsletter and global community that harnesses creativity as a tool to navigate life's interruptions.
Prometheus
This app has reignited my passion for literature – I'm devouring books like never before. ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can acquire new content in a way that suits me best. I love how this app makes my daily commute a journey through literature. Audiobook multitasking made simple – this app's design is a game-changer. Book groups keep my related titles together for a cohesive listening experience. A thoughtful feature!
General Broomdog
ListenBook has become an indispensable part of my daily routine – it's my ultimate audio companion. Finally, an app that values usability – navigating and listening is a breeze! Adjustable playback speed and volume control make for a customized experience.
RiddleRanger
ListenBook's basic audio filters enhance my listening experience and make it uniquely mine. I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for learning. Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a true winner. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fantastic feature. It adds a personal touch.
Sir Squire
Adjustable playback speed is my secret weapon for covering more material in less time. A productivity boost! The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a fantastic bonus. It keeps me entertained during long drives. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Sneaky Lady
I'm amazed at how this app has turned my errands into exciting reading sessions. ListenBook's versatility with various audio formats means I can enjoy audiobooks from multiple sources effortlessly.
Indigo Red
ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. ListenBook's user-friendly design and compatibility with different formats have made it my go-to app. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience. I love the variety of themes available. It makes the app feel personalized.
Killer Grenade
I can't believe how easy it is to download and manage my audio content using ListenBook. 🎉 Rekindling my love for stories – this app's accessibility has reignited my passion! 📖🚀 The book groups feature is a thoughtful addition. It helps me keep my series and related titles together. Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a breeze to use. It's an intuitive experience.
Chasm Face
I'm blown away by the range of non-fiction audiobooks available – so much to learn! I love how ListenBook extracts artwork and metadata from audio files, adding a visual touch to my listening experience. This app has given me the joy of reading even when my hands are full. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌 The app's performance is exceptional, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted audiobook experience. It's clear that it's designed with audiobook enthusiasts in mind.
Skylark
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. 📚📱 Looping playback is a study aid sent from heaven. It's helping me ace my exams! The adjustable playback speed feature is a true innovation. It adds a personalized touch to my listening.
Noisy Girl
Kudos to the developers for creating an app that caters to audiobook lovers like me. From sleek design to functional features, it's a true gem. 💎📚 ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
CuriousCraft
I never knew my daily walks could be so fulfilling – all thanks to this app. 🎧 Making housework more enjoyable – audiobooks turn mundane chores into moments of discovery. 🧹📚 Listening stats keep me motivated to read more. Great addition!
ThoughtTrail
ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have transformed my listening sessions into immersive journeys. 🧘♂️ Finding serenity through the soothing tones of audiobooks – mindfulness and stories in perfect harmony. 🧘♂️🎧 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature streamlines the process of adding new content to my library. This was an adequate audiobook for casual listening. The narrator maintained a consistent pace and clear diction throughout, though their performance lacked some emotional range. The audio quality was fine with no significant technical distractions.
Doz Killer
I can't imagine my life without this app – it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. 📚 Embracing reading in the digital age – this app makes accessing books a seamless and enjoyable experience. 📱🎉 I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend! This audiobook made my workouts fly by! The engaging narration kept me motivated to keep listening, which meant longer gym sessions. The narrator's energy matched the material perfectly - upbeat when needed, somber when appropriate. A great example of how narration can enhance text.
Capital F
Integration with Apple CarPlay has made long road trips so much more enjoyable. 💪 Doubling the impact of my workouts – exercising and exploring stories, all thanks to this app! 💪🎧
Old Orange Eyes
Savoring audiobooks without complications – this app's design is commendable. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. It's like having a personal assistant for my literary adventures. Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook! ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve found. The interface is clean and easy to use.
Shadow Chaser
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. I'm in awe of how technology has enhanced my reading experience through this app. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. It's like getting a clear, immersive listening experience. The audio quality is excellent, and the interface is intuitive. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
JK Friend
🎉 Unveiling the joy of reading once again – this app is my gateway to literary wonders! 📚🔓 Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
Spunky Sphinx
I can't believe how much more I'm able to read with the help of this app. Who knew that commuting could become such an enjoyable reading session? My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch.
ThoughtTrailblazer
Audiobooks have become my companion during long walks, transforming exercise into a pleasure. ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design – it's like a personal library right at my fingertips. I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks seamlessly. Very convenient.
JigKraken
Audiobooks have never been this immersive – this app transports me to different worlds. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌 ListenBook’s design is sleek and modern. The app is a pleasure to use.
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