I never thought I would say this, but I think I am going to start buying audio books. I'm having a lot of issues with my eyes lately, and even new contacts and new eyeglasses aren't helping that much. I don't know anything about audio books, though. Where's the best place to get them? Do different companies use different narrators? What do you do if you want to listen to a certain book but you don't like the sound of the narrator's voice?
There are different companies, but I only use Audible. I don't have eyesight problems, I just like them. They help me to fall asleep (I bookmark where I start each night so I can go back if I fall asleep fast) and I use them when I'm doing housework and cooking.
Narrators are hit and miss. You can listen to a sample of each before you buy to see if you like them. I've had a few I hated and returned, there was something stilted and jarring about their reading. Not all services let you return books, and Audible only allow a couple per year.
Thanks for the reply; I'll look into Audible. I really hope I can get these eyesight issues cleared up soon but in the meantime, it's made it a lot harder for me to read or do things on the computer!
There are a large number of programs that might make your computer time a little easier. Look for screen readers, and screen magnifiers that are designed for visually impaired computer users. They will be listed as accessibility software.
Samuel Messages: 45 Registered: January 2014 Location: USA
Baron
Audiobooks really do have their place. In particular they are great for children in the car, on long journeys. They act as boredom busters without the need for endless screen time, and there is a wonderful selection of books available.
I have never given audio books much thought, but the posts in this thread ignited an interest. I tend to get migraines when I strain my eyes too much; audio books seem to be a possible solution. I am not quite sure what themes are available, meaning story books, scientific books, magazines, latest news... Where does a rookie start in this new 'unfamiliar frontier' to find out what types of audio books are available? Is a set of headphones all that is needed to access an audio book?
Round2 Messages: 108 Registered: September 2013 Location: Canada
Viscount
I have a friend who swears by audio books. He even listens to it when he goes jogging or for walks. He says it's very calming, especially when you get a good speaker.
Wayne Parham Messages: 18786 Registered: January 2001
Illuminati (33rd Degree)
I love listening to the "Hitchhiker's Guide to The Galaxy" series while driving sometimes. Like to listen to Richard Bach's "Illusions" too. Not always, sometimes I like music, sometimes talk radio and sometimes audio books. But I drive enough I get a chance to listen to 'em all.
I have a friend who swears by audio books. He even listens to it when he goes jogging or for walks. He says it's very calming, especially when you get a good speaker.
A woman at work jogs at lunch and listen to her audio book while she runs. She says it keeps her focused on her running. I haven't gotten into it yet but I'm afraid I might fall asleep with someone reading in my ear.
Harlow Messages: 16 Registered: June 2014 Location: United States
Chancellor
I can relate to you! I told myself I would never get into them. I kind of thought of them as lazy. I mean why not just read? When my father-in-law got very ill a few years back though, we would have to take him long distances to doctor visits in the car. My wife started bringing along some audio book- CDs, and we all loved them.
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