Book description
How did a loner destined for a niche domestic audience become one of the most famous writers alive? A "fascinating" look at the "business of bringing a best-selling novelist to a global audience" (The Atlantic)―and a “rigorous” exploration of the role of translators and editors in the creation of literary culture (The Paris Review). Thirty years ago, when Haruki Murakami’s works were first being translated, they were part of a series of pocket-size English-learning guides released only in Japan. Today his books can be read in fifty languages and have won prizes and sold millions of copies globally. How did a loner destined for a niche domestic audience become one of the most famous writers alive? This book tells one key part of the story. Its cast includes an expat trained in art history who never intended to become a translator; a Chinese American ex-academic who never planned to work as an editor; and other publishing professionals in New York, London, and Tokyo who together introduced a pop-inflected, unexpected Japanese voice to the wider literary world. David Karashima synthesizes research, correspondence, and interviews with dozens of individuals—including Murakami himself—to examine how countless behind-the-scenes choices over the course of many years worked to build an internationally celebrated author’s persona and oeuvre. His careful look inside the making of the “Murakami Industry" uncovers larger questions: What role do translators and editors play in framing their writers’ texts? What does it mean to translate and edit “for a market”? How does Japanese culture get packaged and exported for the West?
Cabbie
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that I can access my content without any limitations. Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a fun way to customize my listening experience. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius. The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. It’s so easy to navigate. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Lucky Aurora
This app's support for various formats and genres ensures that there's always something new to explore. ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use. 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.
Hyper Kong
If you love stories but have a busy schedule, this app is your solution! The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Irish Dze
Audiobooks have made my workouts more enjoyable, and I'm seeing results! The playback controls are so responsive. No lag at all.
Crazy Rox
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. 🎉 Unlocking the door to imagination – this app is my key to endless stories and endless possibilities. 📚🔑 The auto-rewind feature after interruptions is a small thing that makes a big difference. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Rummy Stickers
ListenBook's audio filters are a fantastic addition, enhancing the sound quality of my audio files. ListenBook is my daily companion, turning mundane tasks into exciting audio adventures. The range of audio formats supported is incredible. No need to worry about file conversion. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear dictaphone recordings. The narrator's voice was like butter - smooth, rich, and utterly pleasant to listen to for hours. They handled complex sentences with ease, making even dense material accessible. I never had to rewind because I missed something due to unclear delivery. Perfection!
Magenta
Audiobooks have made my long commutes enjoyable, and I'm always eager to see what's next. Audiobooks have become my bedtime companions, soothing me into a peaceful sleep. As a busy individual, I appreciate ListenBook's versatility in downloading audio files from various sources. It's a time-saver for sure!
Buckshot
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. ListenBook's customizable audio filters are a game-changer for tailoring my audiobook playback.
Lady In Red
The app's features, like the sleep timer, make it clear that it's designed with readers in mind. 🎙️ This app's functionality is a symphony of efficiency – I'm enjoying audiobooks without missing a beat in my day. 🎶📚 I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Orange Teflon
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features make it easy to keep my content at my fingertips. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a huge plus. I can control my audiobooks from my wrist! Looping playback of a single track helps me focus and absorb complex content. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. Middle-of-the-road experience. The audiobook was fine—good narration, decent story—but it didn’t leave a lasting impression. If you’re looking for something low-commitment, this works.
Serendipity
This app is a lifesaver! I can now enjoy my favorite books on the go. ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs.
Tse Tse Guy
Kudos for the thoughtfully curated collections – I'm discovering hidden gems! ListenBook has all the features I need. My go-to audiobook app!
Coma Stalk
Audiobooks on this app have transformed my daily routines into engaging experiences. ListenBook has brought stories back into my life, making every moment a new adventure. With this app, I've turned mundane tasks into moments of inspiration and education – it's brilliant! ListenBook's sleek layout and quick chapter access have made my audiobook journey incredibly enjoyable. Looping playback is a valuable study tool. It helps me grasp complex content and retain information.
Manly Reno
Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized. This app is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. The ability to adjust skip intervals and playback speed is fantastic. I also love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Worth every penny!
Mad Irishman
The audio filters on ListenBook enhance the sound quality, making every listening session a treat for my ears. 🌟 Simplifying my reading routine – this app's user-friendly design ensures I'm always in sync with my favorite stories. 📚✨ Looping playback and shuffle features keep my audiobook sessions engaging and fresh.
WeldMaster
ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook has brought stories back into my life, making every moment a new adventure.
Feline Devil
Mood-based playlists help me choose books that suit my current state of mind. I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn any moment into a reading opportunity. Automatic metadata retrieval is a neat touch. My library is well-organized. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
Wolf Tribune
Audiobooks have made my long drives enjoyable, and this app is my co-pilot. This audiobook app is a true gem – it brings stories to life with every click. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick controls make it my preferred choice for audiobook enjoyment. Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch. As someone who struggles to focus on audiobooks, this kept my attention the whole way through. The narrator's clear diction and expressive delivery were perfect.
Wiccan Trouble
🏃♂️📚 Combining exercise and exploration – this app keeps me motivated on my daily jogs! 🏃♂️📖 User-friendly brilliance! This app's functionality enhances my audiobook experience. Simplifying my audiobook experience – this app's design is a game-changer. Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldn’t call it unforgettable.
Noh Noh
This app has brought back the joy of reading, even when I'm on the move. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is such a fun way to spread joy. 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