Book description
A riotous romp through five millennia of Jewish life
Rob Kutner's The Jews: 5,000 Years and Counting is the kind of book that makes you laugh so hard you forget you're learning history. From the first scribbles on a cave wall to the latest episode of Seinfeld, Kutner stitches together myth, miracle, and mishap with a humorist's flair that feels both irreverent and affectionate.
What sets this volume apart is its fearless playfulness. Imagine Moses' secret diary, or a group therapy session among the Patriarchs and Matriarchs-each chapter turns a familiar story into a comedy sketch while still delivering solid context. The book is peppered with "Jew-facts," "Jew-figures," and even a collection of Rabbi Action Cards that feel like a playful side-quest for readers who enjoy interactive learning.
Kutner's style is conversational, almost like a stand-up routine delivered in book form. He never shies away from controversial moments-think the awkward 1492 text chain or the dramatic "I'm dumping you" message from Spain-yet he frames them with a wink that keeps the tone light. Even if you're not deeply versed in Jewish lore, you'll find yourself nodding along to the jokes and then wanting to dig deeper.
The book's structure makes it an ideal companion for anyone curious about how the Jewish people have navigated centuries of diaspora, persecution, and cultural renaissance. It reads like a guidebook for modern Jews (and non-Jews) alike, offering both trivia and insight in equal measure. And if you're looking for a gift that will spark conversation-perhaps even a few good-natured kvetches-this is it.
In short, Kutner turns history into an accessible comedy special. You come away laughing, but you also leave with a fresh appreciation for the resilience and richness of Jewish heritage. A must-read for anyone who wants to know how the Jews got here-and where they're going next.
Gentle Avenger
Audiobooks have become my companions during long hours of household chores. I love that ListenBook Pro allows me to customize the tone of the sound – it adds a personal touch. 🚶♂️🌟 Staying entertained during leisurely walks – audiobooks make outdoor time delightful! 🚶♂️🎧 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
Easy Street
The captivating narrators make each story come alive in a unique way. I can't believe how easy it is to download and manage my audio content using ListenBook. The playback speed control is a game-changer. ListenBook lets me listen at my own pace.
Jo Jo Spooky
Audiobooks made accessible – this app's ease of use is a true blessing. I never thought I'd find an app that supports such a wide range of audiobook formats. ListenBook is a true gem!
Apple Nola
This app has turned audiobook listening into a daily ritual for me. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly enhanced my audio quality. ListenBook has made listening to audiobooks a breeze. The smooth playback and intuitive interface are unmatched.
Killer Grenade
📚 Embracing a new reading habit with this app's seamless accessibility. Say goodbye to boredom! 📱🎉 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature is a time-saving convenience that I greatly appreciate. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and relaxation periods. It's an indispensable part of my routine.
Esquire
ListenBook has made my daily routines more vibrant and exciting with its immersive features. Managing my audiobook collection is a pleasure thanks to this app's usability. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections. 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! One of the best audiobooks I’ve heard! The story was compelling, and the narrator’s delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Nola
Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. Integration with Apple CarPlay has made long road trips so much more enjoyable. This app has transformed my long flights into productive and enjoyable experiences. This app has transformed my daily routines into immersive storytelling experiences. 🚶♀️📱 I'm exploring new worlds while on the move, all thanks to this app's seamless functionality. 🏞️📚
CyberScribe
Navigating chapters and genres is a breeze with this app's functionality. CUE playlist support is a fantastic addition. It helps me organize my audiobooks effortlessly.
Nacho
The bookmark feature is a lifesaver – no more losing my place in the story! This app has made literature accessible and engaging for all ages. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy.
Murder Cherry
🌟 Say goodbye to boredom during long drives – this app makes road trips fly by! 🚗🎉 ListenBook's sharing options make it easy for me to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Ozzie Treat
This app has brought back the joy of reading, no matter how busy I am. Gone are the days of struggling with formats. Thanks to this app, my audiobook journey is a breeze, and every tale is a tap away. Highly recommended! 📚🎧 ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically adds a visual touch to my audiobook collection.
MindfulMingle
🌟 Elevating everyday moments – this app adds an extra layer of magic to every aspect of my day. 📚✨ I've never experienced such silky-smooth playback even with high-quality FLAC files. The sound quality is excellent. It feels like I’m in the story.
General Finish
🏝️🎧 Packing for vacation just got better – this app is my getaway entertainment! 🌴📖 Audiobook journey simplified – this app's functionality is a wonderful surprise. Adjusting the tone of the voice is so innovative. It's like personalizing the narration. Downloading audio from network devices is a brilliant feature. It's incredibly convenient.
Pixy Mox
I appreciate how ListenBook offers various methods for downloading audio – it caters to different preferences. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is a true winner. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Bowie
Audiobooks have never been this immersive – this app transports me to different worlds. ListenBook has become my ultimate audiobook companion. It enhances every listening session.
Miss Twilight
ListenBook's compatibility with different formats ensures I never have to worry about file conversions. The ability to adjust playback speed and volume is a game-changer for me. The app is so versatile. It works with all my audiobook formats.
California Goddess
With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique tool that adds a touch of creativity to my listening experience. Auto-rewind feature is extremely helpful. Great functionality. ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
Manly Reno
I love that I can download content directly from the internet within the ListenBook app – so handy! I can't get enough of this app's convenience – it has transformed my audiobook journey into a joyous experience. ⏰ Early mornings have become my favorite time to listen to audiobooks – energizing! 🌅🎧 CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable.
Murder Matter
Thanks to ListenBook's extensive statistics, I can track my audiobook consumption and celebrate my progress. Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch. AirDrop sharing makes it easy to share audiobooks. Great feature!
New York Winder
ListenBook is like a personal audiobook curator, allowing me to enjoy my favorite speeches and lectures with unmatched comfort and convenience. An audiobook lover's dream come true! This app's seamless functionality and diverse format support make it my go-to choice for immersive storytelling. 📚🎧
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