Book description
Translated by Oonagh StranskyChildren can be cruel, and children can love as passionately as adults, more so at times. When these two facts combine and ignite the imagination of Italy's greatest contemporary novelist, extraordinary, unexpected things can come of it. Like this seemingly simply novel that bellies remarkable psychological depths and infinite degrees of enchantment. Imagine a child, a daydreamer, one of those boys who is always gazing out windows. His adoring grandmother, busy in the kitchen, keeps an eye on him. The child stares at a balcony on the opposite building, watching a black-haired girl as she dances a reckless, dangerous dance. He is in love. And a love like this can push a child to extremes. He can become an explorer or a cabin boy, a cowboy or castaway; he can fight duels to the death, or even master unfamiliar languages. His grandmother has told him about the entrance to the underworld, and he knows the story of Orpheus's failed rescue mission. Stupid man, the boy thinks. He could do better, he could bring that dark-haired up from the underground. If only he had the chance. She tells him about the entrance to the underworld, engraving indelible images in her nephew's mind. An irresistible book, as sharp as the swords of fantasy hidden under the bed, as precious as a family jewel, in which the discovery of love and the discovery of death follow each other, marking the end of childhood.The moment during childhood in which both love and death are revealed is portrayed to perfection in this latest novel by the Strega Prize-winning Italian novelist, Domenico Starnone, whose books are sharp as tacks, quick to read, and impossible to forget.
MysticMingle
ListenBook's unlimited length of audiobooks with the Pro version is a fantastic value for avid listeners. This app has added a new layer of enjoyment to my downtime – I'm truly grateful. Tone adjustment is a brilliant addition that lets me personalize the narration to my liking. It adds an extra layer of connection to the audiobooks.
Mental
Finally, an app that understands the power of CUE playlists. Perfect for organizing. Listening stats feature keeps me motivated to read more. Love it!
LunaStar
Binaural audio processing is a game-changer – my ears stay comfortable during long listening sessions. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear and distraction-free listening.
Backstreet
This app has turned my mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for reading. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. My audio quality has improved dramatically. Binaural audio processing is amazing. Reduced my listening fatigue significantly.
Day Hawk
ListenBook has redefined my audiobook experience. It's an essential tool that enhances every listening session. The noise reduction feature is a game-changer for clearer dictaphone recordings.
Kill Switch
This app's convenience has transformed my reading habits – it's a game-changer. I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in books through this app. The app is so versatile. It works with all my audiobook formats. 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.
Virgo Moon
My kids are hooked on the children's audiobook collection – it's a parenting win! Binaural audio processing is a game-changer – my ears stay comfortable during long listening sessions.
Cabbie
💃 Grooving to the rhythm of stories while tackling household chores – a dance of productivity! 🎶📖 ListenBook has revolutionized the way I consume content. It's like having a personal tutor in my ear. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Electric Saturn
This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any limitations. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is seamless. I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks during commutes and workouts.
Automatic Slicer
I've become the go-to storyteller at bedtime with the help of this magical app. ListenBook's intuitive controls and features have made it my preferred choice for audiobooks. Sharing audiobooks via AirDrop is incredibly convenient. Great feature!
Charms
This app has transformed my long flights into productive and enjoyable experiences. This app's playback controls and features make it a breeze to customize my listening experience. Audiobook enjoyment has become an integral part of my routine, thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. A must-have! 📖📱 ListenBook has changed my audiobook game forever. No more format woes! Quick access to chapters and controls ensures a seamless listening experience with ListenBook. It's effortless to use.
Bazooka Har-de-har
This app has turned my daily routine into a source of excitement and joy. I'm so glad I chose the audiobook version! The narrator added layers of meaning I might have missed reading silently. Their interpretation of the material felt thoughtful and authentic. The recording was technically perfect - no reverb, no peaking, just clean, pleasant audio.
Predator
ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats is impressive. From MP3 to FLAC, it handles them all flawlessly. The app's seamless integration with Apple Watch makes it my perfect workout companion. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a fun and convenient way to share the magic of storytelling with friends and family, sparking meaningful discussions. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of reading. ListenBook has transformed the way I engage with literature. It's like having a virtual bookshelf in my pocket.
Squatch
ListenBook's library organization and Book Groups feature make it easy to keep my audiobooks organized and accessible. ListenBook has transformed my mundane activities into enjoyable moments of learning and entertainment.
Golden Cougar
With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an indispensable tool for my audiobook enjoyment. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks hassle-free. This app is my audiobook haven. With a user-friendly interface and features like audio filters, I'm engrossed in stories like never before. 📖🔊 Adjusting the tone of the voice adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I love the personalization!
ThickSKN
ListenBook is more than just an app – it's a doorway to a world of knowledge and imagination. Listening to audiobooks has never been this enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! 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.
Scarlet Mary
ListenBook's comprehensive format support makes it the ultimate companion for audiobook enthusiasts. Adjustable playback speed and volume control are top-notch.
Burst Nibbler
The app's performance is nothing short of impressive – smooth, responsive, and designed with audiobook lovers in mind. Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app! ListenBook’s interface is clean and intuitive. It’s a joy to use. I love how I can create playlists. It’s perfect for organizing my books.
Mirage
ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. I'm amazed at how this app's features cater to audiobook enthusiasts' every need. Audiobooks made simple – this app's functionality is a breath of fresh air. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique and fun feature. I can customize the narration to my liking. The app's versatility in downloading audio is impressive. It streamlines the process and saves time.
Alley Cat
Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. Listening to audiobooks on this app has become my favorite way to relax. This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it!
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