Book description
# This Crowded Earth: A Claustrophobic Masterpiece That Feels More Relevant Than Ever
Robert Bloch's "This Crowded Earth" isn't just another forgotten sci-fi gem from the pulp era-it's a prescient nightmare that deserves a spot on your audiobook playlist.
## Why This Overpopulation Thriller Still Hits Hard
Published in 1958 but set in humanity's cramped future, this novel tackles themes that feel ripped from today's headlines. Bloch, best known for "Psycho," proves he's equally masterful at building atmospheric tension through ideas rather than just gore and suspense.
The audiobook format actually enhances the experience-there's something deeply unsettling about hearing descriptions of overcrowded cities and resource scarcity when you're commuting through your own packed urban landscape.
## What Makes Bloch Special
Don't let the "pulp fiction" label fool you. Bloch was mentored by H.P. Lovecraft and rubbed shoulders with Stanley G. Weinbaum, but he carved out his own niche blending psychological horror with social commentary. His background in fanzines and vaudeville gave him a unique ear for dialogue that translates beautifully to audio.
## The Audiobook Experience
At just under 3.5 hours, this is perfect for a weekend deep-dive. The narrator captures Bloch's blend of paranoia and dark humor without overacting-a common pitfall with older sci-fi adaptations.
Bottom line: If you enjoyed Bloch's work in television (including those classic Star Trek episodes) or appreciate thoughtful science fiction that doesn't sacrifice entertainment value, "This Crowded Earth" delivers. It's like "Soylent Green" meets "The Twilight Zone," with less cheese and more genuine unease.
Give it a listen before our own crowded Earth makes this fiction feel uncomfortably like documentary.
RiddleRanger
This app's compatibility with different devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook library. The adjustable playback speed feature is a true innovation. It adds a personalized touch to my listening. This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it! The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
SunnySnap
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and seamless playback have made it my go-to app. πΆ Swapping background music for the soothing voices of narrators β audiobooks have become my soundtrack for daily life. π΅π Audiobooks made delightful β this app's usability is a breath of fresh air. ListenBook's statistics feature is eye-opening. I had no idea how much time I spent immersed in audiobooks until I started using it.
Sylvester Eye
This app's sleek design and intuitive navigation have made audiobook listening a seamless experience. ListenBook's statistics feature is both enlightening and motivating. It's incredible to see the time I've invested in learning through audiobooks.
Trick Baron
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Organization made simple β this app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures that every story is just a tap away. Convenience at its finest. ππ± Sharing audiobooks with friends is a breeze thanks to ListenBook Pro's AirDrop and sharing options. Spread the joy of a good story! The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
QuestWeaver
The statistics feature in ListenBook is a valuable tool for monitoring and optimizing my audiobook consumption. This audiobook transformed my household chores into enjoyable moments! The narrator's lively yet measured delivery kept me engaged throughout. I particularly appreciated how they handled exposition - making potentially dry information interesting through thoughtful inflection and pacing.
Nessie Pork
The ability to highlight passages and take notes while listening is a fantastic feature. Noise reduction is magic. I can finally enjoy dictaphone recordings without discomfort. I love the bookmarking feature. ListenBook makes it easy to pick up where I left off. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
ChatterChampion
Thank you for making literature more accessible, enjoyable, and immersive. This app is a game-changer! Audiobooks on the go β this app's design prioritizes convenience. Downloading over WiFi is quick and efficient. Saves a lot of time. This is exactly what I look for in an audiobook! The narrator's pleasant voice and excellent diction made even complex passages easy to follow. I appreciated the subtle but effective use of pauses and emphasis that added depth to the listening experience. Finished it in record time because I couldn't stop listening.
Microwave Chardonnay
I'm addicted to this app's curated playlists and recommendations β they're spot on. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature. I'm loving it! 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.
Shadow Gal
The 'Continue Listening' feature ensures I never lose my place, no matter where I am. ListenBook has turned my daily routines into audiobook-driven journeys of imagination. Savoring audiobooks without complications β this app's design is top-notch. Automated metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is so organized now.
Freeway
I'm constantly amazed by the variety of genres β there's something for everyone. I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates into my life, enhancing every moment with stories. With this app, every moment is an opportunity to dive into a new story. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a playful addition that lets me tweak the audiobook experience. Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience.
9Lives
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook is a fantastic way to spread the joy of listening. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. No more carrying heavy books β this app has transformed my reading habits. My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch.
Mammoth 2
As a language enthusiast, this app has been a fantastic tool for learning new languages. I'm blown away by the app's performance. It's fast, reliable, and tailored for audiobook lovers. ListenBookβs playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace.
Runway Darling
The narrator's voices are so captivating, it's like they bring the stories to life. I can't believe how much time I've saved thanks to this efficient app! π§ An audiobook treasure trove in the palm of my hand β this app is pure convenience! ππ ListenBook's audio filters allow me to customize the audio playback to suit my preferences perfectly. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives.
Purity Catnip
I love how this app brings stories to life, even during my morning jogs. Solid performance overall though some character voices sounded too similar. I occasionally got confused about who was speaking in dialogue-heavy scenes.
Napoleonic Haze
This app has turned my mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for reading. I can't get enough of this app β it's like having a personal library with me. With this app, reading is no longer a luxury β it's an essential part of my day. Mastering audiobook navigation β this app's ease of use is commendable. Audiobook multitasking simplified β this app's ease of use is a true asset.
Energy
I love how ListenBook caters to various formats, making it versatile and accommodating for all my audiobooks. I can't get enough of ListenBook's silky-smooth playback and intuitive design. It's my go-to app for both leisurely listening and study sessions. Discovering new literary worlds has never been this easy. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audiobook library is at my fingertips. ππ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand, transforming noisy environments into serene listening spaces. The app is perfect for multitasking. I can listen while doing other things.
BlacKitten
The ListenBook app has enriched my daily life, adding a layer of intellectual and emotional fulfillment. The auto-rewind feature after interruptions is a small thing that makes a big difference.
ZenZone
Bookmarks are a lifesaver for study materials. I never lose my place again. ListenBook's attention to detail is commendable. Every aspect of the app is well-crafted.
Dorothy Solitaire
The app's versatility in downloading audio is impressive. It streamlines the process and saves time. CUE playlist support is a brilliant feature that allows me to create customized listening experiences for different moods, activities, and moments of the day. ListenBook has rekindled my passion for learning. I'm exploring new topics every day. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
Stud
Audiobooks have made my morning routine something to look forward to. I'm amazed at how this app has expanded my reading horizons. ListenBook has enriched my life with a diverse range of content, all at my fingertips. Tone adjustment adds a personalized touch to the narration, making the audiobook experience even more immersive. The app is perfect for language learners. The playback speed control is a game-changer.
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