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.
LifeRobber
🎶📚 Replacing tunes with stories – my house is alive with the sound of narration! 🎧🏠 👩🍳 Elevating culinary experiences with auditory tales – cooking has never been this entertaining and educational! 🍳🎧 ListenBook is my constant companion during workouts. The controls are so easy to use. The app is perfect for people who love to read but don’t have the time.
Bourbon Mirage
ListenBook's support for network device downloads and drag-and-drop is a time-saving delight. ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. Audiobook immersion without fuss – this app's ease of use is commendable.
MindfulMingle
I appreciate how ListenBook offers various methods for downloading audio – it caters to different preferences. With ListenBook, I've found a way to make the most of my free time while indulging in my love for audiobooks. Simplifying my audiobook experience – this app's design is remarkable.
Oblivion
My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. 📱 Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's ease of use is a booklover's dream come true! 📚🔥 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!
Mr. Spy
Effortlessly managing my audiobook library – this app's design is a triumph. ListenBook's interface is not just aesthetically pleasing; it's also highly functional. Navigating through chapters and controls is a breeze. I've never experienced such silky-smooth playback even with high-quality FLAC files.
CZR
Audiobooks have made my long drives enjoyable, and this app is my co-pilot. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features have become indispensable tools in my audiobook learning. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction keep my audiobook library organized and visually appealing. Adjustable playback speed and volume control make for a customized experience. Auto-rewind is a very handy feature. Excellent app.
Snow Pharaoh
I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in books through this app. 🏡 Embracing audiobooks while tidying up the house – it's like having a helper! 🏠📚 Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is a game-changer. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my audiobook experience, ensuring I catch every detail.
StarZen
The ListenBook app has enriched my daily life, adding a layer of intellectual and emotional fulfillment. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a unique feature that adds a personal touch to my listening. 💼 Balancing responsibilities with relaxation – audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. 💻📖 Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that sets this app apart.
Scratch
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook is a fantastic way to spread the joy of listening. The chapters feature on ListenBook enhances my audiobook exploration – it's like flipping through pages. No more limits on the genres I can explore! This app's versatility in downloading and organizing audiobooks ensures I always have a captivating tale at my fingertips. 📖📱 The audio filters in ListenBook allow me to customize my listening experience. Speed up or slow down playback—it's all up to me! This audiobook performed its function without excelling. The narrator's delivery was straightforward and easy to follow, though lacking in dramatic flair. The recording quality was decent with only occasional minor inconsistencies in volume. An acceptable but forgettable listening experience.
Tin Fox
Simplifying audiobook management – this app's functionality is a true asset. Adjustable playback speed and volume control are top-notch.
Duke Electro
Effortlessly managing my audiobook collection – this app's functionality is a winner. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to connect with fellow book lovers. CUE playlist support is a thoughtful feature that keeps my audiobook listening organized and enjoyable. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks seamlessly. Very convenient.
Corny
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CoB@lt
ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. I can't imagine my life without this app – it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. The tone adjustment feature is an exciting touch, allowing me to immerse myself even more in the content. Tone adjustment is an innovative touch that adds a personal connection to the audiobook narration. It's like having a custom reading experience.
Zero Corn
I'm grateful for ListenBook's seamless compatibility with a variety of formats – it's a true lifesaver. No more limits on the genres I can explore! This app's versatility in downloading and organizing audiobooks ensures I always have a captivating tale at my fingertips. 📖📱 Effortless and enriching – that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features have set the bar high for audiobook enjoyment. 📱📖 Noise reduction feature is magic. Now I can listen to recordings even in noisy settings. Looping playback has taken my language learning to new heights. Highly recommended!
Knight Light
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. The app's versatility in audio downloading is unmatched. It's a comprehensive solution for my audiobook needs.
The Belgian
The app's recommendations are surprisingly accurate – it's like they know my taste perfectly! 🎉 My audiobook haven – this app is like a door to endless adventures and knowledge! 📚🔑 Audiobook immersion without complications – this app's ease of use is commendable.
Nice Gnome
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DreamWeaver
The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. It’s so easy to navigate. I love the quick access to settings. It makes tweaking the app so easy.
Ember Rope
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Apex
Audiobooks have made my long commutes enjoyable, and I'm always eager to see what's next. I'm addicted to this app – it's a non-stop journey through captivating tales. Adjusting playback speed has given me greater control over my audiobook experience. I can optimize my learning and enjoyment by customizing the pacing.
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