Book description
The beloved New York Times bestselling author reflects on home, family, friendships and writing in this deeply personal collection of essays. "The elegance of Patchett's prose is seductive and inviting: with Patchett as a guide, readers will really get to grips with the power of struggles, failures, and triumphs alike." --Publisher's Weekly"Any story that starts will also end." As a writer, Ann Patchett knows what the outcome of her fiction will be. Life, however, often takes turns we do not see coming. Patchett ponders this truth in these wise essays that afford a fresh and intimate look into her mind and heart. At the center of These Precious Days is the title essay, a surprising and moving meditation on an unexpected friendship that explores "what it means to be seen, to find someone with whom you can be your best and most complete self." When Patchett chose an early galley of actor and producer Tom Hanks' short story collection to read one night before bed, she had no idea that this single choice would be life changing. It would introduce her to a remarkable woman--Tom's brilliant assistant Sooki--with whom she would form a profound bond that held monumental consequences for them both. A literary alchemist, Patchett plumbs the depths of her experiences to create gold: engaging and moving pieces that are both self-portrait and landscape, each vibrant with emotion and rich in insight. Turning her writer's eye on her own experiences, she transforms the private into the universal, providing us all a way to look at our own worlds anew, and reminds how fleeting and enigmatic life can be. From the enchantments of Kate DiCamillo's children's books (author of The Beatryce Prophecy) to youthful memories of Paris; the cherished life gifts given by her three fathers to the unexpected influence of Charles Schultz's Snoopy; the expansive vision of Eudora Welty to the importance of knitting, Patchett connects life and art as she illuminates what matters most. Infused with the author's grace, wit, and warmth, the pieces in These Precious Days resonate deep in the soul, leaving an indelible mark--and demonstrate why Ann Patchett is one of the most celebrated writers of our time.
RightN0w2
ListenBook has rekindled my love for audiobooks. The app's interface is beautiful and user-friendly. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch enhances my audiobook experience during daily activities. With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries. Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my library look organized and visually appealing. The app is perfect for multitasking. I can listen while doing other things.
Mechani-Man
I love that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats, making my library diverse. I'm impressed by the app's performance β it's stable, fast, and tailored for audiobook enthusiasts. Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling. The bookmark feature is fantastic. I can easily pick up where I left off.
VisionVoyager
With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my daily routines more enriching and rewarding. ππ Exploring stories even with my eyes off the page β this app is a bedtime dream! π΄π§ The app's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically is a huge time-saver. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction is a lifesaver. I can hear clearly even in noisy environments.
Tweety
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. Audiobook enjoyment has become an integral part of my routine, thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. A must-have! ππ±
Heaven Sent
I love how ListenBook caters to various formats, making it versatile and accommodating for all my audiobooks. I love that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats, making my library diverse. The book groups feature is a thoughtful addition. It helps me keep my series and related titles together.
Mud Finger
The ListenBook app is a must-have for anyone who loves to learn and be entertained through audiobooks. Thanks to ListenBook, I'm now exploring different genres and formats I never thought I would. Gone are the days of waiting for the right time to read β this app is always ready. I can't get enough of this app β it's like having a personal storyteller in my pocket.
JesterZilla
ListenBook's compatibility with multiple downloading methods ensures there's always a way to get my content. ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful β I'm hooked! ListenBook's dedication to delivering an exceptional experience is evident in every detail. Audiobook adventures simplified β this app's functionality is a revelation. ListenBookβs audio quality is excellent. The app enhances my listening experience.
BoomerBox
I love how this app turns even the dullest tasks into exciting storytelling moments. I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for learning. π Unveiling the joy of reading once again β this app is my gateway to literary wonders! ππ
Slug-em-dog
Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
SpellTansy
Mood-based playlists help me choose books that suit my current state of mind. No more carrying heavy books β this app has transformed my reading habits. This app's convenience has made my downtime more rewarding and enriching. ππ Turn traffic into a literary escape β this app's functionality keeps me engaged while I'm on the move. ππ§ ListenBook has redefined my audiobook experience. It's an essential tool that enhances every listening session.
Sandbox
With ListenBook, I've found a convenient and enjoyable way to engage with audiobooks and educational content. I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates into my life, enhancing every moment with stories.
NemesisX
ListenBook's interface is not just aesthetically pleasing; it's also highly functional. Navigating through chapters and controls is a breeze. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback features have become indispensable tools in my audiobook learning.
Bombay Shivers
No more straining my eyes β this app lets me 'read' with my ears! I can't believe how much more I'm 'reading' now, thanks to this app. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make reading fit into any moment.
EchoEnigma
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience β it's like having a personal audio library. Automatic metadata retrieval adds a professional touch to my audiobook collection. 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.
Necessary Momentum
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook is a fun feature that adds a unique touch to my audiobook experience. ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go.
Mafia Princess
This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats means I can now enjoy all my favorite audiobooks in one place.
DragonBlood
Audiobook heaven! This app's functionality is a dream β simple and efficient. The app's interface is so sleek and modern. It's a joy to use.
Chapstick
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition β I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my life so much easier. With this app, I've found a way to make my daily errands more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. The ability to adjust playback speed and volume is a game-changer for me. ListenBook has elevated my learning experience. I'm retaining more information than ever.
Doll Champagne
Listening to audiobooks has turned mundane tasks into enjoyable experiences. ListenBook's dedication to providing a smooth and enjoyable listening experience is evident in every aspect of the app. Thanks to ListenBook, I've rediscovered the joy of exploring my favorite content on multiple devices. The app's compatibility with various sources for audio download is a true time-saver. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and moments of relaxation. It's a true companion.
Classy Luck
No more fighting over the radio during family trips β we're all hooked on audiobooks now. π₯ Adding a spark of excitement to my daily routine β this app is my secret weapon! β¨π Kudos to the developers for optimizing this app for iOS 16. It runs like a dream on my device. The app is so responsive. It never lags or freezes. 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.
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