Book description
Audiobook Review - "The Smartest Kids in the World" by Amanda Ripley
If you've ever wondered how a handful of nations have turned their children into real problem-solvers, this audiobook is your passport. Narrated with engaging clarity, Ripley takes listeners on a global tour that feels both like an investigative report and a heartfelt memoir.
The story opens in the most unexpected places: a girl from Oklahoma who raises $10 000 to study in Finland, a Minnesota teenager who trades his quiet suburb for Seoul's fast-paced streets, and a Pennsylvania boy who moves to Poland. Through their eyes the book reveals how each country has re-imagined schooling-not by throwing out textbooks, but by reshaping attitudes toward learning itself.
What makes this listen especially compelling is Ripley's balance of data and humanity. She cites cutting-edge research on cognitive development while never losing sight of the students' daily struggles-sleep-deprived exams, teachers who once earned millions, parents who now set higher expectations. The narrative is peppered with anecdotes that make complex educational reforms feel relatable: a "battle-scarred" reformer's late-night meetings, a student's first time tackling an open-ended problem, the moment a teacher finally sees her class light up.
Critics have praised the book for its "masterly" insight. The New York Times Book Review notes that it peels back the glossy surface of foreign cultures and makes our own education system look oddly strange-an invitation to question what we accept as normal. This audiobook doesn't just inform; it inspires. By showing how cultural shifts in parenting, curriculum rigor, and student agency can dramatically raise intellectual performance, Ripley plants a seed for listeners who want real change.
The narrator's pacing keeps the story moving, while occasional pauses allow complex ideas to settle. Even long stretches of dialogue feel natural because each voice is distinct-whether it's a Finnish principal, a Korean teacher, or an American student in Poland. The result is a listening experience that feels like a conversation with friends over coffee.
In sum, "The Smartest Kids in the World" is more than a comparison of school systems; it's a call to action. For anyone curious about how education can be re-imagined-or for parents who wish their children had more than just homework-this audiobook offers both evidence and hope. It reminds us that smarter kids aren't born by chance; they're cultivated, one thoughtful lesson at a time.
Pocket Muzzie
I'm impressed by ListenBook's commitment to providing a silky-smooth playback experience. I'm amazed by the app's versatility in downloading audio. It accommodates various sources seamlessly.
Austin Shamrock
I'm grateful for ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats, making it a one-stop solution for audio content. Effortless audiobook exploration – this app's functionality is a true delight. The auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that enhances my listening journey. I appreciate it! The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Winter Underdog
ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. I love how this app fits seamlessly into my daily routine. Looping playback is a brilliant study tool. Thanks to ListenBook, my learning has improved! ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience.
Howitzer Rise
Listening to audiobooks has made my daily commute more enjoyable and productive. This was a workmanlike audiobook that did the job without flair. The narration was clear and the pacing appropriate, though the delivery lacked some emotional depth. The production quality was acceptable with no major technical issues.
Hightower
This app's versatility and convenience have transformed my screen time into a productive reading journey. Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is impressive. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly improved the audio quality of my recordings.
High Heel Goddess
I'm amazed at this app's ability to transport me to different worlds through stories. I'm in awe of how this app has made reading seamlessly fit into my lifestyle.
Sly Bible
ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. I'm hooked on this app's sleek design and seamless performance – it's a must-have for any reader.
Bad Princess
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again – but in a modern, convenient way. Audiobook heaven! This app's functionality is a dream – simple and efficient. Audiobook magic at my fingertips! This app's thoughtful features, such as statistics tracking and audio filters, have added a new layer of excitement to my reading journey. 📚✨ Auto-rewind is incredibly helpful. Excellent functionality. The subtle background music at key moments enhanced the experience without being distracting. More audiobooks should use this technique when appropriate!
Toolmaker
Audiobooks on this app have turned my travels into explorations of new narratives. This app has turned even the most ordinary moments into reading sessions. Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and diverse compatibility ensure that every tale is a captivating journey. 🌌🎧 Noise reduction in ListenBook Pro ensures crystal-clear playback even in noisy environments. ListenBook’s design is sleek and modern. The app is a pleasure to use.
Indestructible Potato
ListenBook's support for various formats ensures that no audiobook is out of reach. Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thank you! This app is perfect for audiobook lovers. The interface is beautiful and easy to navigate.
Pepper Prada
ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant source of books. ListenBook's support for looping and shuffling playback adds versatility to my audiobook enjoyment. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Excellent app!
Dropkick
This app's compatibility with different file types means that my entire audiobook collection is at my fingertips. ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats is impressive. From MP3 to FLAC, it handles them all flawlessly. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to inspire others to read. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Bleach
ListenBook's smooth playback and easy navigation ensure that my audiobook experience is always top-notch. ListenBook's intuitive controls and features have made it my preferred choice for audiobooks. Binaural audio processing really works. Less fatigue during long listening sessions. ListenBook’s design is sleek and modern. The app is a pleasure to use.
Twix Bond
This app has turned even the most ordinary moments into reading sessions. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant companion for literary adventures. 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. This served its purpose as background listening while I worked. I probably missed some details but the narrator's voice was pleasant enough.
Sun Runner
The captivating narrators make each story come alive in a unique way. This app's user-friendly interface has made reading on-the-go a breeze. 🎉📚 Reigniting my passion for books – this app is my newfound reading obsession! 🔥🎧 This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it! The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
Sky Trinity
The 'Discover' section is a treasure trove for finding hidden literary gems. ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening sessions into immersive experiences.
Spunky Sphinx
With this app, reading is as simple as pressing play – it's genius! I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience so effortless. From downloading to playback, it's a true companion for book lovers. 📚💫 ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. I can enjoy clear recordings. The app is perfect for language learners. The playback speed control is a game-changer.
Twix Bond
🎉 This app's functionality is a masterpiece – it seamlessly integrates audiobooks into my daily routine. 📚🎨 Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that allows for a personalized listening experience.
Dancing Madman
This app has reignited my passion for literature – I'm devouring books like never before. ListenBook's extensive library and user-friendly interface have made it my go-to app. ListenBook is my trusted partner for all things audiobooks. It's reliable, intuitive, and user-friendly.
Lady Killer
No more fighting over the radio during family trips – we're all hooked on audiobooks now. I love how ListenBook extracts artwork and metadata from audio files, adding a visual touch to my listening experience. 💼 Making work hours enjoyable – audiobooks turn my tasks into learning opportunities and moments of joy. 💻📖 🎉 The ease and functionality of this app make it my go-to choice for immersive audiobook experiences. 📱🎧
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