Book description
The Family of Jesus is an audiobook that turns a familiar scriptural narrative into a living, breathing experience. Karen Kingsbury-known for her warm storytelling in novels like Firefly and A Thousand Words-brings the same gift to this collection of six short stories, each centered on one of Jesus' closest family members: Mary, Joseph, James, John the Baptist, Zechariah, and Elizabeth.
From the first word, Kingsbury's narration feels like a conversation with an old friend. Her voice is gentle yet firm, guiding listeners through moments that are both historically grounded and deeply emotional. The audio format gives each character its own distinct timbre; you can hear Mary's quiet resilience, Joseph's quiet authority, James' restless curiosity, John's prophetic urgency, Zechariah's anxious faith, and Elizabeth's hopeful anticipation. This subtle vocal differentiation helps listeners feel as if they're right there in the ancient streets of Nazareth, hearing voices that have echoed for millennia.
What sets this audiobook apart is how it balances scriptural fidelity with imaginative detail. Kingsbury never strays from the biblical text; instead she fills in silences with plausible, human moments-Mary's sleepless nights, Joseph's quiet prayers before a decision, James' doubts as he watches his brother walk into danger. These details are not merely ornamental; they become catalysts for reflection. After each story, the narrator pauses to pose thoughtful questions that invite listeners to connect the narrative back to their own lives and faith journeys.
The pacing is perfect for an audio format. Each chapter begins with a brief introduction that outlines the historical context, followed by a compelling narrative arc, and ends with a devotional prompt. The result feels like a mini-study group led by a charismatic teacher-each story invites you to laugh, cry, and ultimately feel more deeply connected to Scripture. Listeners who have previously approached the Bible analytically will find themselves moved by the human stories that reveal the heart behind the text.
For anyone seeking an accessible entry point into biblical study or simply a heartfelt listening experience, The Family of Jesus offers both. It's not just about learning facts; it's about feeling the warmth and weight of faith in everyday moments. If you're looking for an audiobook that will transform your relationship with Scripture and leave you humming its verses long after the last word is spoken, this is a must-listen.
Thrasher
ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. ๐ถ๐ Setting the mood with stories instead of songs โ this app is my go-to playlist! ๐ง๐ ListenBook's detailed statistics feature helps me keep track of my listening habits. It's amazing to see how much I've learned from all those audiobooks! I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itโs a fun feature.
Saturn Extreme
My commutes to work have transformed into exciting journeys thanks to this app. With this app, I can seamlessly switch between audiobooks and real life. Auto-rewind is a very handy feature. Excellent app.
Biscuit Meg
I appreciate the option to listen to samples before committing to a book. This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any hassle. ๐ฑ Carrying my library in my pocket โ this app makes every moment a reading opportunity! ๐๐ The ability to adjust the tone of the narrator's voice is a creative touch that adds depth to my listening.
Scratch
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. Tone adjustment is such an innovative feature. It adds a personal touch to narration. Auto-rewind is a brilliant feature. Never lose track of where I left off. Good but not great. The narration was competent but lacked the extra spark that makes some audiobooks truly special. Still worth a listen though.
Twister Hero
I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. ๐ Rekindling my love for reading โ this app has reintroduced me to the joy of books in a whole new way. ๐๐ฅ Iโve been using ListenBook for months, and itโs been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesnโt drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
Hemlock
I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates with my daily routine. If you love stories but have a busy schedule, this app is your solution! Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features.
Bug Fire
I can't get enough of this app's convenience and the endless possibilities it offers. ๐ผ Workday blues? Not anymore โ this app turns my office hours into reading time! ๐ป๐ Efficient audiobook enjoyment โ this app's functionality is a revelation.
Tootsie Killer
I'm rediscovering my favorite classics in a whole new way โ through audiobooks! I've become a more attentive listener thanks to the engaging audiobooks. ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and relaxation periods. It's an indispensable part of my routine. Organizing my audiobook library has never been easier. The app keeps everything tidy.
Gamer Bean
Looping playback is a study tool that I can't live without. It helps me master challenging content. The detailed listening stats are fantastic. Helps me keep track of my progress.
Solitaire
The audiobook player's silky-smooth playback is like music to my ears. Flawless performance! ListenBook Pro is worth every penny. Unlimited audiobook length? Count me in! Listening stats motivate me to read more. Great feature!
Canary Apple Red
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. WiFi downloads save a lot of time. Great feature! The playback history is a great feature. I can easily revisit my favorite parts.
Free Ham
With ListenBook, I've found a way to make the most of my free time while indulging in my love for audiobooks. Kudos to the developers for making this app iOS 16 optimized. It runs like a dream!
Carrot Joker
ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. Audiobooks at my fingertips โ this app's functionality is truly impressive. Kudos to the developers for crafting an app that understands readers' needs. The smooth playback and sleek design are pure perfection. ๐๐ I can't believe how seamless the integration with Apple Watch is. My workouts just got better. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to connect with fellow book lovers.
Toxic-oxide
With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. This app has transformed my daily routine into moments of literary delight. ListenBookโs bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
InsightfulInk
Thanks to ListenBook, I've rediscovered the joy of exploring my favorite content on multiple devices. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures I never miss out on any audio gem. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. ๐๐ I'm blown away by the attention to detail in every aspect of this app.
Twisty Freesia
Listening to audiobooks has become my ultimate way to unwind after a long day. Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very pleased. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
Rummy Stickers
I'm addicted to the personalized recommendations โ it's like the app knows me! I've found solace and relaxation in the pages of countless audiobooks. The ListenBook app has become an indispensable part of my daily routine, helping me learn and relax simultaneously. Audiobook multitasking made easy โ this app's functionality is top-notch.
Mad Rascal
I'm addicted to this app's ability to turn mundane moments into opportunities for intellectual growth. ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a testament to the app's commitment to audio quality. Chapters make navigation a breeze. I can easily pick up where I left off. ListenBookโs interface is clean and intuitive. Itโs a joy to use.
Bombay Shivers
Thanks to this app, I can enjoy the world of literature without missing a beat in my fast-paced life. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear dictaphone recordings. The app's support for multiple formats is flawless. Very satisfied.
Abyss Tamer
This app has made my workouts and chores so much more enjoyable. This app has brought the magic of books back into my life. Playlists and bookmarks are super helpful. Love using ListenBook! Highly engaging! The combination of a well-written story and skilled narration made this audiobook hard to pause. I finished it much faster than I expected because I just couldnโt stop listening.
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