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.
Chuckles
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Crazy Rox
Audiobooks have become my constant companions during my daily activities. Effortlessly switching between stories – this app's ease of use is impressive. ListenBook’s audio filters are great. The app provides a high-quality listening experience.
Sir Shove
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New York Sixlet
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CuriousCrafter
This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a blast. AirDrop makes it seamless. Bookmarks are a lifesaver for my study materials. I can easily revisit important sections. Not the best audiobook I've heard but far from the worst. The production quality was good and there were no major issues with the narration.
New York Winder
Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks is a hassle-free process, regardless of the source. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook library. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. 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!
DreamWeaver
This app has turned my long walks into delightful literary adventures. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. 💡 The future of audiobook listening is here – this app's sleek functionality redefines how we enjoy our favorite stories. 🎧🔮 I love how customizable the playback speed is. It makes listening so much more enjoyable.
Arsenic Coo
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. This app has made reading a part of my lifestyle, no matter where I am. With this app, I'm experiencing the joy of reading in a whole new light. ListenBook’s support for CarPlay and Apple Watch is fantastic. I can listen anywhere. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Minty Devil
Audiobooks on this app have expanded my horizons and introduced me to new ideas. Adjusting playback speed has revolutionized the way I learn and enjoy audiobooks. I can adapt the pace to my needs, maximizing comprehension and retention. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to jump between sections. I love the ability to change the font size. It makes reading the titles so easy. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Sky Herald
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ReiGnZ
I'm addicted to this app – it's a non-stop journey through captivating tales. The interface is so clean and clutter-free. It’s a pleasure to use.
Suicide Crusher
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Pepper Legs
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Red Delicious
The offline mode is a lifesaver on flights – I'm never without a good story. With this app, I've discovered a whole new way to enjoy literature. ListenBook has become my go-to workout companion. It keeps me motivated and entertained. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature.
High Woo
Hands down, the best audiobook collection I've ever come across. It has everything I want to listen to. 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.
Legacy
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RightN0w2
This app has become my go-to companion, making my daily routine more exciting and insightful. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a blast. AirDrop makes it seamless. Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a touch of elegance to my audiobook collection.
VPR
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London Fox
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Acetic Princess
ListenBook's compatibility with multiple downloading methods ensures there's always a way to get my content. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has elevated my listening experience. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fun way to experiment with the audiobook experience. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
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