Book description
The Mammoth Book of SF Stories by Women Review
Alex Dally MacFarlane has curated something extraordinary with this anthology. Spanning decades of science fiction excellence, this collection amplifies voices that have shaped the genre in profound yet often overlooked ways.
The diversity here isn't just in names-it's in worlds. From Nnedi Okorafor's mythic "Spider the Artist" to Ursula K. Le Guin's timeless "Mountain Ways," each story operates on multiple levels. These aren't simply tales of space travel or futuristic technology; they're explorations of identity, power, and transformation.
What strikes immediately is the range. Karin Tidbeck's "Sing" builds an entire mythology around industrialization while Catherynne M. Valente's "The Radiant Car Thy Sparrows Drew" reimagines mythology through a distinctly feminine lens. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Bear and Sarah Monette's "Boojum" delivers hard science fiction with literary sophistication.
The audiobook format enhances these narratives remarkably. Professional narration brings subtle nuances to characters that might otherwise remain unexplored on the page. Voices carry emotional weight that complements the intellectual rigor of these stories.
This isn't a corrective anthology-these aren't stories included merely because they're written by women. They're here because they're exceptional. Each piece stands independently brilliant while contributing to a larger conversation about perspective, agency, and vision in science fiction.
For anyone serious about understanding where science fiction has been and where it's going, this collection is essential listening.
Guillotine
ListenBook's compatibility with multiple downloading methods ensures there's always a way to get my content. I've rediscovered my love for reading, all thanks to this app's convenience. 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! 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!
Midnight Rider
With ListenBook, I can listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with maximum comfort and convenience. This app has become my ultimate travel companion, ensuring that I'm always entertained and inspired. This app's compatibility with different devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. 💡 This app has made my daily schedule more interesting – 'reading' on the go! 📱🚶♂️ The library organization feature is a blessing. My audiobooks are finally organized and easy to find.
Demo
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition – I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. ⭐️ Who knew cleaning could be this exciting? This app turns chores into adventures! 🧹🏰 Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like the app knows what I need. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Bliss
🎉📚 This app has rekindled my love for books – I can't stop listening! 🚀🎧 The auto-rewind feature after interruptions is a small thing that makes a big difference. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study routine. It helps me retain information effectively. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while exercising.
Jetta Talent
The narrators have a way of bringing characters to life – it's a unique experience. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made multitasking with audio content a breeze. This was an adequate audiobook for casual listening. The narrator maintained a consistent pace and clear diction throughout, though their performance lacked some emotional range. The audio quality was fine with no significant technical distractions.
MeeP
🔥 Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears – audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. 🎵📖 ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces. 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!
Roller Girl
🎶📚 Replacing melodies with literary symphonies – my ears are in love! 🎵📚 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to inspire others to read.
Barbwire
🧘♂️ Finding zen in the art of listening – this app takes mindfulness to a new level! 🧘♂️🎧 Navigating chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and seamless experience.
21st Street
ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats ensures that I can enjoy a wide range of content hassle-free. ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening into a personalized experience. Savoring audiobooks without complications – this app's design is commendable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It eliminates distractions and enhances the clarity of recordings, resulting in a more immersive experience.
Manimal
I'm impressed by ListenBook's commitment to providing a silky-smooth playback experience. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fascinating way to add a personal touch to my audiobook journey.
Little General
⭐️ Kudos to the developers for creating an app that's both functional and user-friendly. I can navigate and enjoy my books effortlessly. 📚👏 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Dallas Burn
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. ListenBook has transformed my mundane activities into enjoyable moments of learning and entertainment. The narrators on this app are truly talented – they bring characters to life. This app is a blessing for those with busy schedules – it's like time travel through stories. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze.
Gov Skull
No more fighting over the radio during family trips – we're all hooked on audiobooks now. With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings. Audiobooks on this app have become my go-to entertainment for winding down. Listening stats motivate me to read more. Great feature!
The Happy Jock
🚶♀️📖 Walking my way through exciting narratives – this app makes exercise more fun! 🏞️🎧 Unlimited length audiobooks with ListenBook Pro are a huge plus!
Genghis Glyph
I love that ListenBook Pro allows me to customize the tone of the sound – it adds a personal touch. ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. I can't believe how convenient this app has made my reading experience. ⏰ Maximizing my time with efficient features – this app's functionality lets me dive into stories even in the busiest moments. 📚⏳ Noise reduction in ListenBook Pro ensures crystal-clear playback even in noisy environments.
CosPlatoon
ListenBook's looping playback, shuffle feature, and configurable controls make learning a breeze. ListenBook's commitment to a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls is evident in every aspect of the app. ListenBook has become my workout companion of choice. It keeps me motivated and entertained during exercise. My study sessions are more efficient than ever, thanks to the looping playback and bookmark features. The ability to download audio from various sources without syncing is fantastic. ListenBook makes it so easy.
Lightening Trip
I'm grateful for ListenBook's seamless compatibility with a variety of formats – it's a true lifesaver. I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality – it's evident in every feature. 🏝️ Basking in the sun while indulging in literary adventures – this app makes outdoor relaxation even better. ☀️📖 ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to spread the joy of captivating stories with friends.
Mr. Lucky
🏃♂️📚 I'm conquering literary marathons with ease, all thanks to this app's intuitive controls and smooth functionality. 📱📖 Audiobooks made convenient – this app's functionality is impressive. The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a novel feature that allows for a personalized listening experience. The app is so responsive. It never lags or freezes.
Roller Girl
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features are a dream come true – no more hassles! With this app, every moment is an opportunity to dive into a new story. No more interruptions – the auto-rewind feature is a genius solution for seamless listening.
Wings
ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience. 🌌 Adding an extra layer of delight to cooking – this app turns meal prep into a culinary adventure with its audiobooks! 🍲📖 The intuitive interface and efficient navigation make this app a pleasure to use every day. Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldn’t call it unforgettable.
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