Book description
Audiobook Review - The Magician by Colm Tóibín
Listening to The Magician is like stepping into a living, breathing archive of the twentieth century. Tóibín's narrative, already celebrated on paper as a "feat of literary sorcery," shines even brighter when voiced by a cast that brings each character's voice and era to vivid life.
From the very first notes, the narrator sets the scene in a small German town at the cusp of modernity, with Thomas Mann's childhood layered over the hum of industrial progress. The subtle inflections capture his internal conflict: a son torn between filial duty and a secret yearning for art-and for love that society will not accept. As the story unfolds across continents-Munich, Switzerland, France, Princeton, Los Angeles-the narrator's tone shifts smoothly, reflecting the changing moods of each setting without losing the thread of Mann's personal journey.
What truly elevates this audiobook is its meticulous attention to historical texture. The soundscape is rich with period-appropriate music and ambient sounds: the clatter of a train in Berlin, the distant echo of war drums, the soft murmur of a café in Paris. These elements ground listeners in each epoch, making the rise of Hitler, the horrors of World War II, and the chill of the Cold War feel immediate rather than abstract.
The emotional core-Mann's lifelong battle with his desires, his family obligations, and the moral dilemmas posed by history-is delivered with a quiet intensity. The narrator never oversells; instead, subtle pauses and gentle crescendos allow the weight of each revelation to settle naturally. When Mann finally receives the Nobel Prize, the music swells just enough to underline the triumph without turning it into melodrama.
Listeners will also appreciate the way Tóibín intertwines his own life with that of his protagonist. The audiobook subtly hints at the author's perspective through reflective passages, giving a meta-layer that enriches the listening experience.
In short, The Magician audiobook is an immersive journey that combines literary brilliance with stellar narration and sound design. Whether you're a fan of historical sagas or simply looking for a compelling story to accompany your commute or workout, this recording delivers every page's promise-savoring each moment from start to finish.
Ice
This app's support for various formats has made my audiobook collection even more diverse and exciting. My productivity has soared since I started using ListenBook for my study materials. The playback speed adjustment is a game-changer for busy individuals. Time saver! The playback controls are so responsive. No lag at all.
21st Street
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. 📚 Who needs TV when you have this app? Every moment is a storytelling session! 📺🎧 🧘♂️ Finding zen through storytelling – this app makes meditation even more calming. 🧘♂️🎧
Eye Devil
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. Simplifying my audiobook experience – this app's design is a game-changer. The audio filters to adjust playback speed and volume are a fantastic addition for customizing my experience. Supports extensive playlists and bookmarks. Very user-friendly.
Star Killer
The selection of classics is a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts. This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. This app's user-friendly interface has made reading on-the-go a breeze. 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!
Snow Cream
The layout of ListenBook is so beautiful and user-friendly, making it a pleasure to use. This app has made my downtime so much more productive and enjoyable. 💡 The future of audiobook listening is here – this app's sleek functionality redefines how we enjoy our favorite stories. 🎧🔮 Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. It transforms the way I enjoy my recordings. 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.
Doughboy, Esq
ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable. Navigating through chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's easy to jump to specific sections. Adjusting playback speed has transformed the way I consume audiobooks. I can tailor the pacing to match my learning style and preferences. ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Betty Cricket
Unparalleled support for CarPlay and Apple Watch means I can take my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. I can't imagine my daily activities without this app – it's the perfect way to stay engaged and informed. Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's functionality is truly commendable. I'm on a literary adventure wherever I go, all thanks to this app. Its extensive format support and effortless navigation make audiobook listening a breeze. 🌟📚 Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
RealmRanger
ListenBook's library organization and book groups help me keep my content neatly sorted. 🏃♂️📚 Combining fitness and fiction – this app keeps me motivated during workouts with its engaging stories! 🏃♂️📖 Tone adjustment is an innovative touch that adds a personal connection to the audiobook narration. It's like having a custom reading experience. The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care.
Cosmo
With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of reading through my ears, making every moment more valuable. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library – this app's design is a triumph.
Swampmasher
ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a dream come true for those epic tales. It's like having a personal audiobook library in your pocket. ListenBook's audio filters allow me to customize the audio playback to suit my preferences perfectly. The attention to detail is commendable. Artwork and metadata are sorted automatically. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch.
Desert Haze
🚶♀️📱 I'm exploring new worlds while on the move, all thanks to this app's seamless functionality. 🏞️📚 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!
Mule Lock
This app's sleek design and intuitive features make it my trusted partner in exploring new narratives. This app's convenience has turned my exercise sessions into enlightening moments. Enhancing my daily routines – this app's design makes listening a joy. 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.
Foot-long Fry
I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my daily dose of literature. Effortlessly enjoying audiobook journeys – this app's ease of use is a winner. Savoring audiobooks without complications – this app's design is commendable.
Sir Squire
Audiobooks have made my long commutes enjoyable, and I'm always eager to see what's next. ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of reading through my ears, making every moment more valuable. Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment are excellent additions. The app is perfect for long walks. It keeps me company the whole time.
Bae
I've found hidden gems in genres I never thought I'd be interested in. 📱 Carrying my library in my pocket – this app makes every moment a reading opportunity! 📚👜 The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time. 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!
RealmRanger
With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. I'm in awe of how this app has made reading seamlessly fit into my lifestyle. 💡 This app truly understands the needs of audiobook enthusiasts – it delivers an effortless and enjoyable listening experience. 📚🎧 My workouts have become more enjoyable and productive with ListenBook's compatibility with Apple Watch. The app is perfect for bedtime listening. The sleep timer is a must-have.
Star Killer
Frequent updates ensure there's always something new and exciting to listen to. 🚗📖 Beating traffic blues with engaging audiobooks – driving has never been this fun! 🚗🎧
Backstreet
I've become a more attentive listener thanks to the engaging audiobooks. Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys – thank you, app! Effortless audiobook exploration – this app's design is a reader's dream. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌 CUE playlist support is a fantastic organizational feature. It keeps my audiobooks neatly arranged.
Blood Taker
With ListenBook, I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a testament to the app's commitment to audio quality. Looping playback and shuffle features keep my audiobook sessions engaging and fresh.
Fuzzy Claws
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can acquire new content in a way that suits me best. 🎉 Making each day a new chapter – this app keeps me hooked from morning to night! 📖🌄 I love the ability to change the playback pitch. It’s a unique feature.
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