Book description
Audiobook Review - The First Bad Man by Miranda July
Miranda July's debut novel is an audio experience that feels like stepping into a living, breathing art installation. The narrator-an unflinching, warm-voiced talent-captures the book's playful edge and its underlying tenderness with equal ease. From the opening line, you're pulled into Cheryl Glickman's meticulously ordered world: a woman who believes in romances that span centuries, who works at a women's self-defense nonprofit, and who lives alone in a house that suddenly becomes shared with her boss's twenty-year-old daughter, Clee.
The narration does more than simply read the words; it brings out July's signature blend of humor and heart. Cheryl's dry observations are delivered with a crisp timing that highlights their irony, while Clee's brash personality is rendered through a slightly sharper cadence, making her "selfish, cruel blond bombshell" feel both larger-than-life and intimately human. The dynamic between these two women-one who has built a life of routine, the other who bursts in like an unexpected storm-unfolds with a natural ebb and flow that keeps you hooked.
One of the audiobook's strongest moments is how it handles the book's "raging sexual fantasies." Rather than becoming gratuitous, the narrator treats them with subtlety and respect, allowing the listener to feel the intensity without losing the story's emotional core. The sensual scenes are interwoven seamlessly into Cheryl's internal monologue, making her journey of self-discovery both compelling and relatable.
What truly sets The First Bad Man apart is how the audio format amplifies its themes of love, transformation, and maternal bond. The narrator's tone shifts from a measured calm to an almost whispered intimacy when Cheryl confronts her deepest fears and desires. This sonic journey mirrors the book's narrative arc-from order to chaos, then back to a new equilibrium.
If you're looking for a story that is "tender, gripping, slyly hilarious," this audiobook delivers on all fronts. Miranda July proves herself not just as a filmmaker or artist but as an original voice in contemporary literature. The narration transforms her prose into something alive and immediate, making The First Bad Man an unforgettable listening experience for anyone who loves stories that challenge expectations while offering a warm, unexpected love story at their core.
Silver Rose
I'm hooked on this app – it's my escape to different worlds and adventures. This app's dedication to providing high-quality narration has made all the difference. ListenBook is a game-changer – it plays a wide variety of formats without any conversion needed. My long walks have turned into exciting adventures with this app. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to spread the joy.
Redneck Giorgio
As a visually impaired person, this app has opened up a new world of stories for me. ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks, lectures, and speeches an absolute pleasure. ⭐️ Turning mundane tasks into exciting adventures – this app makes folding laundry a breeze with audiobooks! 👚🎧 Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a perfect match. ListenBook's commitment to a seamless user experience is evident in its sleek design and intuitive controls.
Darkside Isis
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. No more carrying heavy books – this app has transformed my reading habits. Audiobook immersion simplified – this app's ease of use is a true asset.
Roadblock
Library organization has never been this easy. My audiobook collection is finally tidy. I love the auto-rewind feature after interruptions. No more searching for where I left off!
Breadmaker
Listening to books in their original language has improved my foreign language skills. Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys – thank you, app! ListenBook has made my daily commutes enjoyable. No more boredom! I'm amazed by the app's compatibility with different audio formats. It's truly versatile. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information.
Woo Woo
💃 Grooving to the rhythm of stories while tackling household chores – a dance of productivity! 🎶📖 I can't get enough of the binaural audio processing. It's like a breath of fresh air for my ears.
NightDream
The convenience of having a library at my fingertips is unparalleled. I can't believe how much I've 'read' since I started using this app. Listening to audiobooks on this app has become my favorite way to relax. This app is a treasure trove of knowledge, entertainment, and imagination.
Swedish Twizz
I love how this app turns even the dullest tasks into exciting storytelling moments. This app's simplicity has made me fall in love with books all over again. ListenBook Pro is totally worth it. Unlimited audiobook length – I'm in! With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries. This was a workmanlike audiobook that did the job without flair. The narration was clear and the pacing appropriate, though the delivery lacked some emotional depth. The production quality was acceptable with no major technical issues.
Bambi Benz
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits – truly impressive. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my downtime more enriching and meaningful. Say goodbye to monotony – this app's diverse format compatibility and intuitive controls have turned every moment into a thrilling audiobook experience. 📱🔊 I'm impressed with the wide range of supported formats. Finally, an app that plays all my audiobooks flawlessly.
Dez
🎶 Music? Nah, I prefer immersing myself in captivating stories with this app! 🎶📖 Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is a winner.
BuffFreak
This app is a true treasure for audiobook lovers – it's my go-to source for literary adventures! Adjusting the tone of the voice adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I love the personalization! 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.
Star Jammer
This app is my travel companion – making long journeys enjoyable and insightful. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and precise controls make it a joy to use every day.
Jetta Talent
This app has turned my screen time into valuable learning opportunities. 📚 The simplicity and functionality of this app are top-notch. I can start a book with just a tap and immerse myself in the story instantly. 📱📖
Fist Wizard
ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. I'm hooked on ListenBook's silky-smooth playback, making my audio sessions truly enjoyable. Streamlining audiobook enjoyment – this app's functionality is truly impressive. Looping playback is a valuable study tool. It helps me grasp complex content and retain information. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Winter Bite
Thank you for making my reading goals more achievable and enjoyable. 🎶 Swapping background music for the soothing voices of narrators – audiobooks have become my soundtrack for daily life. 🎵📚 📚 Embracing reading in the digital age – this app makes accessing books a seamless and enjoyable experience. 📱🎉 CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. Looping playback is a fantastic study tool. It helps me focus and retain information effectively.
Devine Melon
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition – I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. The ListenBook app has made my daily routines more enriching, allowing me to learn while on the go. 📱 Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's ease of use is a booklover's dream come true! 📚🔥 ListenBook's dedication to providing an exceptional listening experience shines through in every aspect of the app. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction keep my audiobook library organized and visually appealing.
InfinityInsight
Navigating through chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's easy to jump to specific sections. Playlists and bookmarks are super helpful. Love using ListenBook!
High Heel Goddess
Navigating through chapters has never been easier. It's a user-friendly delight. AirDrop sharing is a very convenient feature. Thanks, ListenBook!
Poptart AK47
🚗📖 On-the-go listening has never been smoother – this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. 🚗📚 The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver. Tone adjustment is an innovative touch that adds a personal connection to the audiobook narration. It's like having a custom reading experience. Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
Jetta Talent
Audiobook immersion without fuss – this app's ease of use is commendable. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories.
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