Book description
Stop scrolling. Put down that coffee. Seriously, grab your earbuds and press play on Water for Elephants-it's the audiobook equivalent of finding a free drink at a circus tent. Sara Gruen's Depression-era circus saga, narrated with perfect whiskey-soaked charm, doesn't just tell you about Jacob Jankowski's accidental career as a vet for a traveling menagerie; it drops you right into the sweaty chaos of it all. You'll hear the crack of August's whip (charismatic-but-twisted, so much more fun to say out loud), the low rumble of Rosie the elephant's displeasure, and the way Marlena's voice just sings when she's riding her horse under the big top.
This isn't just a love story-it's an elephant-sized love story set against a backdrop where romance feels like a luxury item you'd steal from a pawn shop. Jacob's journey from orphaned vet student to circus fixer (and accidental elephant whisperer) is packed with heart, humor, and enough weirdos to fill a carnival midway. The narrator? A master. They've got that perfect mix of wry, warm, and just a little bit broken-like the circus itself, which is basically a glittery, slightly rickety lifeboat for people who've lost everything.
And Rosie? Oh, Rosie. She's not just a side character; she's the emotional anchor. You'll hear Jacob's quiet breakthrough with her-the way he listens, not just trains-like the most tender moment in a world that's mostly about surviving the next town over. Gruen's writing is lush but never heavy, and the audiobook makes it feel alive, like a campfire story told by someone who's actually been there, covered in sawdust and heartbreak.
It's the kind of book that makes you forget you're commuting. You'll be nodding along to the rhythm of the train tracks, laughing at the circus's absurdity, and then-bam-suddenly, you're emotionally wrecked because two people found love in a place where love was the last thing anyone expected to afford. So skip the dry textbook on the Great Depression. This is history with a side of elephant tears and a whole lot of heart. Trust me: you'll be quoting the narrator's voice long after the last chapter ends. Just... maybe don't listen while driving. You'll want to honk at the next elephant you see.
Rando Tank
ListenBook's compatibility with a wide array of audio formats makes it my ultimate audiobook companion. The interface is so clean and clutter-free. It’s a pleasure to use.
MeeP
The diverse range of narrators adds a new layer of depth to each story. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my life so much easier. I love the statistics feature. It’s fun to see how much I’ve listened.
Viceswerve
With ListenBook, I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. This app's ease of use has made reading more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. ⭐️ Kudos to the developers for creating an app that's both functional and user-friendly. I can navigate and enjoy my books effortlessly. 📚👏 I love how I can adjust the skip intervals. It’s perfect for my listening style.
Thunder Tank
This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences – time flies by! ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. Finally, an app that handles all my audiobook formats effortlessly. ListenBook is a must-have! ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
xFRST
With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is a game-changer. ListenBook has become my ultimate audiobook companion. It enhances every listening session.
DollFaceKillah
The ListenBook app has become an indispensable part of my daily routine, helping me learn and relax simultaneously. This audiobook performed its function without excelling. The narrator's delivery was straightforward and easy to follow, though lacking in dramatic flair. The recording quality was decent with only occasional minor inconsistencies in volume. An acceptable but forgettable listening experience.
Roadblock
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. I'm addicted to this app's ability to seamlessly blend books into my life. The app's integration with Apple Watch makes it an indispensable tool for my active lifestyle. Listening statistics are a great motivator. Love this feature! AirDrop sharing makes it easy to share audiobooks. Great feature!
EchoEmissary
I used to struggle to find time for books – now, I listen while doing chores! Noise reduction on ListenBook enhances the clarity of dictaphone recordings, allowing me to enjoy content even in noisy environments. ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay has made my drives more informative.
West Warrior
I've been recommending this app to all my friends – it's a true game-changer. ListenBook's absence of synchronization requirements adds to its convenience and flexibility. The range of audio formats supported is incredible. No need to worry about file conversion. ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Leaf Assassin
Effortlessly switching between stories – this app's ease of use is impressive. Looping playback helps me retain knowledge from audiobooks effectively. It's an invaluable tool.
Mr. Peppermint
I can't stop raving about this app – it's like having a personal library in my pocket. Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time.
Kamikaze Granny
Listening to audiobooks has become my daily ritual for relaxation and escape. 🎶 Swapping background music for the soothing voices of narrators – audiobooks have become my soundtrack for daily life. 🎵📚 Audiobook enjoyment without the hassle – this app's design is a win. Perfect for both first-time listeners and audiobook veterans! The narrator's warm, inviting tone made this an incredibly comfortable listening experience. I particularly appreciated how well they handled dialogue - each character felt distinct without being cartoonish. The pacing kept me engaged throughout.
JK Friend
I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. ListenBook's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality is evident in every detail. This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of intellectual discovery – a win-win! 📱 Accessing my favorite stories has never been this straightforward – this app's functionality is a bookworm's dream come true. 📚💫
Pepper Legs
ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. 🎉 Rekindling my love for reading – this app has reintroduced me to the joy of books in a whole new way. 📚🔥 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature streamlines the process of adding new content to my library. I can't get over how smooth the playback is. Even high-quality files play flawlessly. I love the ability to import books from my computer. It’s so easy.
Club Nola
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. I can't imagine my daily activities without this app – it's the perfect way to stay engaged and informed. This app's convenience has turned my exercise sessions into enlightening moments. Say hello to audiobook nirvana! This app's user-friendly design and comprehensive features have made my reading routine smoother than ever. 🌌📚
ThreadTrail
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. Audiobook pleasure simplified – this app's design is a standout. I’m so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
Z-Boy
As a visually impaired person, this app has opened up a new world of stories for me. I can't get enough of this app's easy navigation and quick access to chapters and playback controls. 💼 Balancing responsibilities with relaxation – audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. 💻📖 Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become effortless, regardless of the source. 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.
Snout Pixie
ListenBook's configurable auto-rewind after interruptions is a smart addition that keeps me on track. ListenBook's dedication to providing an exceptional listening experience shines through in every aspect of the app.
Grinch Cheese
I love how this app fits seamlessly into my daily routine. 🚶♀️🎧 Walking has never been this productive – exploring new worlds while I exercise! 🏞️💫 The app is perfect for people who love to read but don’t have the time.
Wooden Man
With ListenBook, I've found a way to make the most of my free time while indulging in my love for audiobooks. This app has become my go-to for audiobooks, adding a layer of convenience and enjoyment to my days. 🎶📚 Replacing tunes with stories – my house is alive with the sound of narration! 🎧🏠 ListenBook has become my go-to workout companion. It keeps me motivated and entertained.
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