Book description
If you've ever wondered what Afghan American stories sound like when told by a voice that feels like home-warm, sharp, and utterly alive-this audiobook is your invitation. Jamil Jan Kochai, a finalist for the National Book Award, doesn't just write stories; he hands you a key to a world rarely heard in mainstream fiction. Narrated with a quiet intensity that makes you lean in, The Haunting of Hajji Hotak and Other Stories pulls you into the lives of young Afghans navigating war's echoes and the ache of displacement, both in Kabul and across American streets.
What makes this collection so arresting isn't just its subject-it's how Kochai dismantles every expectation. These aren't stories of trauma reduced to headlines. Instead, you meet characters whose humor is as quick as their tears, whose bravado hides a tenderness that aches in your chest. A boy selling trinkets in a Kabul market, a teen grappling with his father's secrets in Chicago-Kochai's voice, rich and natural in audio, makes their worlds feel immediate, breathing. You hear the rhythm of Pashto in their laughter, the weight of history in their silences.
The Guardian called it a collection that "defies expectations," and you'll hear why. One story might pivot from dark comedy to heartbreak in a single line, another unravels like a whispered secret. Kochai writes with the wide-ranging grace of a master storyteller-his words feel inherited, passed down like the tales of his own childhood. Jess Walter calls him a "thrilling new voice," and in audio, that voice becomes a compass. You don't just read about these characters; you feel the dust of Kabul on your skin, hear the nervous energy of a first day at an American school, taste the bittersweetness of a home you can't return to.
This isn't just a book about Afghanistan-it's about the ghosts we carry, the ones that shape us long after we've left. And in today's world, where stories of the region are often simplified or erased, Kochai's work is a lifeline. The audiobook's pacing, its natural pauses and emphatic turns, makes the political feel deeply personal. You'll hear the urgency in a line like, "We are not the headlines," not as a slogan, but as a quiet, fierce truth.
So if you've ever felt unseen in the stories you read, or if you've ever longed to hear a culture's soul in its own language-this is it. Kochai doesn't just show you the world; he lets you step inside it, with all its contradictions, humor, and quiet, unshakable humanity. You'll finish this audiobook not just knowing more about Afghanistan, but feeling it in your bones. And that's the mark of a truly unforgettable story. You'll hear Afghanistan anew.
ByteBard
My audiobook collection has never been more organized. Library management is a breeze. I love the compatibility with iOS 16. The app runs smoothly and flawlessly.
Dr. Cocktail
Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app is your new best friend. Effortless audiobook exploration – this app's functionality is a true delight. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius.
Polar Bee
Thanks to ListenBook, I've rediscovered the joy of exploring my favorite content on multiple devices. This app has turned my mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for reading. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is a true winner. ListenBook Pro has taken my audiobook experience to the next level. No regrets!
PixelPioneer
With this app, I can enjoy my favorite stories while traveling, making my journeys more delightful. ListenBook's audio filters have given me the power to tailor my listening experience to my preferences.
Moonflower
ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that I never miss out on a great audiobook.
Lightweight
No more fighting over the radio during family trips – we're all hooked on audiobooks now. Finally, an app that turns my daily commute into an adventure through literature. The noise reduction feature in ListenBook Pro is a game-changer for enjoying clear recordings. ListenBook has broadened my horizons by introducing me to a diverse range of audiobooks. It's a gateway to endless knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration. I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
Gothic Slacker
This audiobook app is an absolute lifesaver! It brings my favorite stories to life with unparalleled convenience. Mastering audiobook navigation – this app's ease of use is commendable.
Lilac Lizard
Simplifying my reading routine – this app's ease of use is remarkable. Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a true standout. Adjusting the tone of the voice is genius. It's like having a customizable audiobook narrator. ListenBook makes organizing my audiobooks simple. The app is very user-friendly.
Snapple Whistler
Absolutely love this app! It's made my daily commute so much more enjoyable. Looping playback is a fantastic study tool. It helps me focus and retain information effectively.
Sugar Apple
Audiobooks have become my constant companions during my daily activities. ListenBook has become my ultimate audiobook companion. It enhances every listening session. The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. It’s so easy to navigate.
Lord Theus
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. This app has become my ultimate travel companion, ensuring that I'm always entertained and inspired. ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app is packed with useful features. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narrator’s voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Martini Flower
Background play feature lets me multitask while enjoying a book – brilliant! The vast selection of titles on this app is a book lover's dream come true. 💡 Balancing learning and living effortlessly – audiobooks on demand, thanks to this app! 🎧💫 I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch.
Corny
Audiobooks made easy – this app's functionality is truly a gift. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
SneakerKid
Audiobooks have turned road trips into unforgettable journeys of imagination. With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. ListenBook is like a personal audiobook curator, allowing me to enjoy my favorite speeches and lectures with unmatched comfort and convenience. ListenBook makes organizing my audiobooks simple. The app is very user-friendly. 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!
Sherwood Gladiator
I can't get enough of this app's convenience – it has turned my audiobook journey into a delightful habit. I can't get enough of this app – it's a true game-changer for book lovers. Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's design focuses on seamless interaction. Tone adjustment adds a new layer of personalization to my audiobook experience. It's like having the narrator tailor the voice to my preferences. I love the car mode. It’s so convenient for listening while driving.
CZR
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is such a fun way to spread joy. 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!
Sherm
The ability to adjust playback speed is a game-changer for faster or more immersive listening. With this app, reading is no longer a task – it's a delightful habit. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly. The intuitive interface and efficient navigation make this app a pleasure to use every day. A reasonable choice for casual listening. The audiobook was well-produced, but the pacing felt uneven in places. I didn’t dislike it, but I also didn’t feel strongly about it one way or another.
Saturnalia
With this app, reading is no longer a task – it's a delightful habit. 🎧 Making housework more enjoyable – audiobooks turn mundane chores into moments of discovery. 🧹📚 ListenBook's tone adjustment feature in the Pro version is a creative tool that adds a fun twist to my audiobook journey. Downloading audiobooks over WiFi is super easy. Saves time. This audiobook exceeded all my expectations! The narrator's ability to convey emotion through voice alone was remarkable. I laughed, I gasped, I might have even teared up at points - all because of the incredible vocal performance. The story came alive in a way reading alone couldn't achieve.
Thunder Tank
The app's recommendations are surprisingly accurate – it's like they know my taste perfectly! Audiobook enjoyment without the hassle – this app's design is a win. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality, providing a clear and immersive listening experience that enhances my enjoyment. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature that adds a personal touch. The app is so user-friendly. Even my grandma can use it!
Indestructible Potato
I love how this app's chapters, bookmarks, and controls give me full control over my audiobook journey. The download options are versatile, making it a breeze to get my favorite audiobooks on the go. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a game-changer. It's like customizing my listening experience. Binaural audio processing really works. Less fatigue during long listening sessions. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening 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