Book description
Ivan's voice in this audiobook isn't just a story-it's a revolution. Picture a gorilla who thinks TV is his jungle, whose greatest art is sketching on a cardboard box, and whose biggest concern is whether the mall's AC is too drafty. Katherine Applegate nails it: Ivan's deadpan observations about humans (they "scream like startled birds") and his weirdly specific grocery list for Stella the elephant ("bananas, not canned bananas") land with perfect comedic timing. The narrator nails Ivan's calm, slightly bewildered tone-like a philosopher who just realized his "domain" is a glass cage next to a petting zoo.
Then Ruby arrives. And suddenly, Ivan's not just drawing mangoes on cardboard. He's seeing the cage for the first time. The audiobook's genius? It makes you feel the weight of that shift without a single sob. When Ivan decides to do something-using his art, his voice, his very existence-the tension isn't loud. It's quiet. Like the moment he finally admits, "I am Ivan. I am a gorilla." You'll feel it in your throat, but the narrator keeps it cool. No cheap sentimentality here. Just a gorilla realizing his life has been a bad reality show, and he's got a better script.
The humor? It's the kind that sneaks up on you. Ivan's critique of human culture ("They buy things they don't need to feel like they have something") isn't just funny-it's true. And the way he describes the mall's "art" (a plastic palm tree) versus his own sketches? Pure, quiet rebellion. You'll laugh until you realize you're crying. This isn't just a kid's book-it's a masterclass in how to tell a story that's both hilarious and devastating, all while making you question why we put animals in cages and call it entertainment. The audiobook? It's like Ivan's right there, whispering the truth over a cup of bad coffee. You'll listen to the end, then immediately want to tell everyone. And you'll be right.
Handsome
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. With this app, I've turned my everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for growth and learning. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to create curated listening experiences for different moods and settings. The audio quality is superb. ListenBook enhances my audiobook experience. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks and this narrator is now in my top 5. Their timing and inflection were masterful. Never a dull moment in the entire performance.
Classy Dancer
ListenBook's commitment to enhancing the audiobook experience is evident in its thoughtful features and design. This app has reignited my love for literature in the most delightful way. This app's simplicity has made me fall in love with books all over again. Audiobook enjoyment has never been this convenient. This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and enjoyable. ππ ListenBook is more than just an app β it's a doorway to a world of knowledge and imagination.
Steel
The captivating narrators make each story come alive in a unique way. ListenBook's support for various audio formats makes it a versatile app for all kinds of audiobook enthusiasts.
StorySculptor
ListenBook's dedication to providing a top-quality audio player is evident in every aspect of the app. Smooth playback and great sound quality. ListenBook is my new favorite app! Excellent support for various audio formats. Very satisfied.
Achilles Mountain
With ListenBook, I can listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with maximum comfort and convenience. Audiobooks on this app have turned my travels into explorations of new narratives. This app is like a personal audiobook concierge! The ability to download and organize audio files effortlessly is a game-changer for my reading routine. π±π I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Uluru Walker
πΆββοΈπ Embracing audiobooks as my companions during leisurely walks β nature and narratives, a perfect match! πΆββοΈπ§ My study sessions are more efficient than ever, thanks to the looping playback and bookmark features. ListenBookβs playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
CuriousCrafter
I'm able to enjoy books in a whole new way β while cooking, working out, or even gardening. I'd love to see more classic titles, but the current selection is already fantastic. ListenBook's commitment to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every detail. The fact that ListenBook doesn't just play, but enhances audio quality, is truly remarkable. 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.
Snow Hound
π§ Fueling my audiobook addiction with this fantastic app β pure listening pleasure! ππ₯ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a playful addition that lets me tweak the audiobook experience. The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion. A functional audiobook. It kept me entertained, but I wasnβt blown away. The narratorβs performance was competent, though some emotional scenes fell a bit flat.
Cuff Queen
This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. π§ Navigating through narratives has never been simpler β this app's functionality enhances my audiobook journey. ππ« ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is a game-changer! I love the ability to customize the skip buttons. Itβs so convenient.
Koi Diva
Effortlessly enjoying audiobooks on the go β kudos to this app's functionality. Chapters make it so easy to pick up where I left off. No more hunting around. Drag and drop downloads directly from my web browser? That's a level of convenience I appreciate.
Acetic Princess
ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. With this app, I can enjoy my favorite stories while traveling, making my journeys more delightful. I can't believe how much more I'm 'reading' now, thanks to this app. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature streamlines the process of adding new content to my library. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
MuseMaster
This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any hassle. Unlimited length audiobooks with ListenBook Pro are a huge plus! Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Excellent app!
ManBreaker
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design and user-friendly interface. Effortlessly accessing my favorite audiobooks has become a reality, all thanks to this app's user-centric design and comprehensive format support. A must-download! π±π§ ListenBook has become my trusted companion. It's my go-to app for expanding my knowledge and enjoyment. The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Baked ZD
Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. I'm in awe of how this app has brought new dimensions to my reading experience. Mastering audiobook navigation β this app's ease of use is commendable. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile.
Kitchen
Listening to audiobooks while gardening has made my outdoor time even more relaxing. I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience.
Instant Star
The 'Continue Listening' feature ensures I never lose my place, no matter where I am. This app's user-friendly interface has made audiobook listening a breeze, even for a tech novice like me. Audiobooks made accessible β this app's ease of use is a true blessing. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information. I love the bookmarking feature. ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off.
Roma Kabuki
ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. Audiobooks made accessible β this app's ease of use is a true blessing. ListenBook Pro has taken my audiobook experience to the next level. No regrets! ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. I can't imagine going back! Organizing my audiobook library has never been easier. The app keeps everything tidy.
Tacklebox
I can't believe how much time I've saved thanks to this efficient app! Audiobooks on this app have made my morning rituals something to look forward to. This app's convenience has revolutionized the way I experience books. As an audiobook aficionado, this app is a dream come true. Its support for various formats and effortless navigation make it my perfect reading companion. ππ§ Great for listening to a variety of content. Highly recommend!
Texas Butterfly
Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. This app is a must-have for any book lover on the go β it's my daily companion. ποΈπ§ Escaping to paradise with a beach read β this app is my vacation in audio form! ποΈπ
Fast FLAK
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a brilliant way to connect. The statistics feature in ListenBook is a valuable tool for monitoring and optimizing my audiobook consumption.
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