Book description
The digital era is beset by distraction, and it feels like things are only getting worse. At times like these, the distant past beckons as a golden age of attention. We fantasize about escaping our screens. We dream of recapturing the quiet of a world with less noise. We imagine retreating into solitude and singlemindedness, almost like latter-day monks. But although we think of early monks as master concentrators, a life of mindfulness did not, in fact, come to them easily. As historian Jamie Kreiner demonstrates in The Wandering Mind, their attempts to stretch the mind out to God--to continuously contemplate the divine order and its ethical requirements--were all-consuming, and their battles against distraction were never-ending. Delving into the experiences of early Christian monks living in the Middle East, around the Mediterranean, and throughout Europe from 300 to 900 CE, Kreiner shows that these men and women were obsessed with distraction in ways that seem remarkably modern. At the same time, she suggests that our own obsession is remarkably medieval. Ancient Greek and Roman intellectuals had sometimes complained about distraction, but it was early Christian monks who waged an all-out war against it. The stakes could not have been higher: they saw distraction as a matter of life and death. Even though the world today is vastly different from the world of the early Middle Ages, we can still learn something about our own distractedness by looking closely at monks' strenuous efforts to concentrate. Drawing on a trove of sources that the monks left behind, Kreiner reconstructs the techniques they devised in their lifelong quest to master their minds--from regimented work schedules and elaborative metacognitive exercises to physical regimens for hygiene, sleep, sex, and diet. She captures the fleeting moments of pure attentiveness that some monks managed to grasp, and the many times when monks struggled and failed and went back to the drawing board. Blending history and psychology, The Wandering Mind is a witty, illuminating account of human fallibility and ingenuity that bridges a distant era and our own.
Captain Peroxide
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. With this app, I've turned mundane chores into exciting opportunities for intellectual growth. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and polished.
Darth 44
This app has reignited my passion for literature – I'm devouring books like never before. This app is like having a personal library with me wherever I go. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant source of books. I'm amazed by the extensive statistics tracking. It's fascinating to see my listening habits.
Turnip King
This app has made me appreciate the art of storytelling even more. ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. Looping playback is a fantastic study tool. It helps me focus and retain information effectively. ListenBook has enriched my life with a world of captivating stories and knowledge. It's not just an app; it's a portal to endless possibilities.
Mercury Reborn
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys – thank you, app! Automated artwork and metadata extraction keeps my audiobook library visually appealing.
Tweety
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment. ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a detail-oriented touch I truly appreciate. This app's ease of use has made reading an integral part of my everyday life. Streamlining audiobook enjoyment – this app's functionality is truly impressive. Binaural audio processing is a game-changer – my ears stay comfortable during long listening sessions.
PixelPathfinder
I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. ⏰ Waking up to audiobooks – mornings have never been this magical and inspiring! ☀️🎧 ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to share the joy of captivating stories with friends and family. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that has a big impact on my listening experience. I love it!
Blister
This app's versatility and convenience have transformed my screen time into a productive reading journey. Simplifying audiobook adventures – this app's ease of use is a delight. Quick access to chapters and controls ensures a seamless listening experience with ListenBook. It's effortless to use. ListenBook has become an integral part of my daily routine. Its compatibility with Apple Watch and CarPlay makes it the ultimate companion for various activities.
Flakes
This app's convenience has transformed my reading habits – it's a game-changer. I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my constant companion for literary adventures. 🚗 Transforming long drives into memorable journeys through the magic of audiobooks! 🚗📚
Snapdragon
The narrators have a way of bringing characters to life – it's a unique experience. 🎉📚 This app has rekindled my love for books – I can't stop listening! 🚀🎧 Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a game-changer. It transforms the way I enjoy my recordings.
JesterZilla
I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. ListenBook's audio filters and controls have turned my listening sessions into immersive experiences. 📚 Embracing a new reading habit with this app's seamless accessibility. Say goodbye to boredom! 📱🎉 ListenBook's commitment to a seamless user experience is evident in its sleek design and intuitive controls.
Hog Butcher
I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick controls make it my preferred choice for audiobook enjoyment. Sharing audiobooks with friends is so easy with AirDrop. It's a great way to spread happiness. The adjustable playback speed is a secret weapon for getting through educational content faster. The user-friendly interface and smooth navigation make this app a pleasure to use daily.
Fiend Oblivion
ListenBook's drag and drop downloads from web browsers are a time-saving feature I can't live without. Listening to audiobooks has become a ritual, thanks to this incredible app.
Darling Peacock
The statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption – a fantastic way to measure my progress. I'm blown away by the quality of narration on this app – it's like being in the story. This app has made me realize that there's always time for a good book. Audiobook enjoyment without the hassle – this app's design is a win. ListenBook's dedication to providing an exceptional listening experience shines through in every aspect of the app.
Evil Smith
I'm amazed at how this app's features cater to audiobook enthusiasts' every need. 🎶 Forget background music, I've got enchanting stories to accompany my chores! 🎵📚
Sherwood Gladiator
This app has transformed my screen time into valuable learning and entertainment. I'm addicted to this app's ability to seamlessly blend books into my life. 💼 Making every minute count – this app's ease of use ensures I'm always making progress in my audiobook adventures. 📱📖 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. 🌟🎧 Audiobook lovers, rejoice! This app's functionality is a game-changer. Seamlessly switch between formats and enjoy a hassle-free reading experience. 📱🎧
ChatterChampion
ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a thoughtful touch I appreciate. I'm addicted to this app's ability to seamlessly blend books into my life. The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content.
Mauve Cactus
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic – what a win! The ListenBook app is a must-have for anyone who loves to learn and be entertained through audiobooks. 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. This app has transformed my daily commute into a captivating journey of knowledge and entertainment.
Jelly Momentum
ListenBook's audio filters are a valuable tool for customizing my audiobook playback to perfection. No more converting files – this app effortlessly handles various formats, saving me time and effort.
VisionVortex
Precise controls on ListenBook give me complete command over my audio playback. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts.
Phoenix Sparrow
I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for learning. This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of literary escape. Audiobooks made easy – this app's functionality is truly a gift. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate themed listening sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging audiobook experience. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to introduce them to captivating stories.
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