If you have been following Outset, you know that I am an avid reader. I have a world of books where I have created an imaginary castle. However, of late my reading pace has come down drastically due to my busy schedule. As much as I try to continue reading, the number of books I read is less than half of what I used to. That’s when I decided to give audiobooks a shot.
The pandemic has introduced us to the new normal. Our entertainment is restricted to OTT platforms, Youtube, and other video apps and channels. The apprehensions surrounding the couriers on one side and unrelenting screen time on the other push reading to the lower spectrum of priority. I used to get numerous messages asking for tips to revive the reading. The current scenario is unpredictable, the safest and the most practical substitute for reading is listening to audiobooks.
Why try audiobooks?
You can now have somebody narrate a story to you or read out your favorite book while you go about your every day. Consuming books is not restricted to just reading them, stories can now move with you. This is such a boon for somebody like me who is missing the constant company of stories.
Benefits of audiobooks
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Reduced screen time
We are constantly on screens straining our eyes. Unlike ebooks that could strain your eyes in the long run, audiobooks could be your digital detox tool. Extending your gadget-free time, in turn, relaxes your eyes.
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Develop listening skills
With three kids, I was struggling to keep them occupied and entertained. The storytime with them turned out to be difficult when I was depleted of story ideas. Listening to audiobooks was a solution to this hassle, with the added advantage of seeing their pronunciation getting better!. Their listening time improved and this in turn helped them in their academics as well.
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Time management
The most notable benefit of using audiobooks is time management. You need not dedicate a specified time for listening as you can play it and go about the most boring chores around the house. Nowadays, I am enjoying listening to health-related audiobooks during my walks.
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Better sleeping experience
Studies have proven that sleeping while listening to stories will give you a night of better sleep with a relaxed brain, which in turn improves your overall emotional quotient. Make sure to listen to books that are inspirational or positive during your bedtime.
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Learning experience
If you are someone who reads non-fiction, audiobooks could be your easy access to knowledge.
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Enhanced reading experience.
When the narrator inculcates emotions while reading, it gives a listening experience over and above what you might perceive while reading yourself. But it is imperative that you listen to good quality audiobooks like the ones on Storytel, I see they are extra careful about ensuring they deliver the finest quality narrated books.
My experience with audiobooks:
I tried several apps but to my dismay, the narrative was delivered in a staccato tone and I failed to grasp the essence of the books. After a long search, I got introduced to Storytel and I started listening to their audiobooks, which not only has the kind of narration I was hunting for but also with this busy schedule. My quest for a relatable audiobook ended with Storytel, They have a plethora of choices for audiobooks. More than 2 lac audiobooks available at a reasonable price is a steal on any day
Being a mother of three, I am particular about screen time, both mine and my kids’. Hence Storytel has come as a boon to let me connect with books while I’m busy with household chores. My bedtime story session has shifted to bedtime ‘Storytel’ sessions as they have the option of having the kids’ mode. It helps me filter out audiobooks that are best suitable for kids. The narration does not feel like a robot is narrating a story to my kids, it’s a real person narrating the story with all the emotions which makes one connect a lot more to the audiobook.
For you to have and experience the same luxury, I have a special offer where you can enjoy a 90days of Storytel access at just 375rs, this offer is a limited period one, so I would suggest that you guys grab it as on a paperback we would spend at least 400bucks, but here you can access unlimited books for 90 days, which is a great deal! All you have to do is, use this link to sign-up for Storytel .
A few notable features of Storytel
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Regional languages
In Storytel, the books are available in 12 languages. Isn’t that awesome? English, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and many more. I am a Malayali and I am excited to listen to Malayalam audiobooks that I have never seen anywhere else
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2 lac plus audiobooks
Storytel has a collection of 2 lac+ audiobooks available in numerous languages and genres.
They have books in various genres and the narration is tailored to suit the particular genre that you would like to listen to.
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Endearing narration
The style of narration is the USP of the books by Storytel. My previous experience with audiobooks was disappointing, the narrations that inculcate the emotions without dramatizing and simultaneously bringing out the feelings are fresh.
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Celebrity narrated books
If you want to listen to the books in the voice of your favorite celebrity, they have celebrity-narrated books for you.
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Sleep timer
The App has an option for setting the timer so that the narration stops at the scheduled time so that you could go to sleep while ensuring the gadget-free hours are followed. The books ‘for complete relaxation’ could be the best choice to listen to before bedtime. They have a section ‘Sleepwell with Storytel’ that relaxes the brain and provides much-needed rest.
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Customized bookmarks
I am someone who likes to make notes while reading. Storytel enables me to make notes while listening and create bookmarks manually.
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Offline Book
One of my absolute favorite features is that you can download their books offline and enjoy them whenever you are in a no-network zone. How amazing is that? You can always carry a partner, Storytel with you and as it is, one is never isolated from good audiobooks!
Books by Storytel:
The range of books available in Storytel is unprecedented in the history of audiobooks. From Kite runner to Alchemist, Kabuliwala to Les Miserables, this streaming app has a selection of audiobooks that suits readers in all niches.
The section ‘only kids, no parents allowed’ has a collection of audiobooks. The books are tailor-made for the kids and narrated enticingly. The style of narration is the highlight of Storytel as the emotions are imbibed without losing the original feel.
Missing
Missing is the first book that I listened to in Storytel. While there were my favorites available, I wanted the App. I deliberately selected the book as I wanted to try a Storytel original, which proved to be the best decision. Storytel Originals are the stories or audiobooks that are exclusive to Storytel and you would not find the same audiobook on any other application.
Missing is the story of a womanizer, who finally gets married and the wife goes absconding later. His quest for the truth behind the disappearance of his wife lands him in experiences that he has never experienced. Character craft is the highlight of the book. The narrator has brought a personal touch and the same connected me a lot to the story, almost like I was driven to a different dimension of the line. Sounds fascinating right? More about this audiobook, Missing would be shared in my next review, stay tuned! The story and experience only get better!
I am amazed by the section of thrillers available on Storytel. To know about how to have the thriller listening experience, check out my next post on audiobooks.
If you would want to experience this and many many other audiobooks Storytel has to offer, don’t forget to sign-up through the link – http://mooimoments.in/campaigns/englishoffer
Grab your audiobook from Storytel and share your listening experience with us. If you are a book lover, join our Outset Book Club and be with other book lovers. We also have the Outset Books Facebook Group.
You know Rakhi, I stepped into podcasting because I was impressed with audiobooks. They are time saver and also help us in many other aspect. I also realized that it improved my focus and memory.
I personal find audio books best , I feel connected with the author and the biggest benefit if reduced screen time
My girl who loves reading, is now only on audiobooks and now started her own podcast. It's indeed so good to listen to these audiobooks.
Though I love buying and reading books. But I think that for a change I can give it a try. Thank you sharing this, I have heard about audible too.
I started listening audio books some 3 years ago and it has been a fab experience. My preferred source is audible.
Usually the applications that supply audiobook are pricey in terms of money as well as space, I don't know about Storytel though I must check it out
I have never tried an audiobook. I could never find something to start with. But this is something worth checking out.
I am right away singing for storytel. This sounds really interesting. Audio books are such an amazing alternative and have immense benefits. Thanks for introducing this app.
Of late I find many people, recommending audio books, and didn't know how to start. This app seems good . Thank you for introducing this…
I have to agree Audio books are indeed very helpful and also keeps us away from eye stress. In fact I can connect much better when I am listening to audio books.
Storytel is a great app for all the audiobook lovers, one can have more books read or listened at the same time doing another activity and also it reduces our eye effort. Shall check the app.
I love hearing audio books. I will try Story Tel. Hope they have all genres of books available with them.
Wow I need this coz I really cannot so much of screen time and I would love to have my ebooks read to me. Let me check this app out.
I tried audio books once but did not enjoy it much but with current work situation, sometimes I feel that it will be really nice just listening to a nice book with my eyes closed.
I am an ardent reader but with the hordes of books piling up, I am now planning to switch to Kindle and audibles.
Interesting point of view… i will reconsider trying out audio books, in the past my experience for so average, that i choose to stay away… but your article tells me things have now changes, for the better 🙂
Audio book is something new for me have never heard before definitely will be checking out thank you for sharing this out.
This is such a great article. I am recently adding an audiobook with the text for better understanding until I completely develop my listening skill.
These audio books are so cool… I haven't tried it yet as I am an avid reader was just thinking if it will spoil me and I will get addictive to it…just contemplating…
Yes I too finds audio books very much comfortable also they increase your learning and communication skills
I haven't yet tried audio books before but I am definitelyintrigued to give it a shot. Thanks for sharing such an insighful post.
I totally agree with your blog,keeping yourself busy in this pandemic time is really difficult. Indulging in new hobbies or habits ,during this time,will be amazing.Specially if people find it boring reading books can opt for audio books,which are quiet beneficial and interesting in this pandemic time.
Very true!! Audiobooks are a new way of getting things done and that helps a lot in reading more books with time.
I really love audiobooks! I use Audible mostly for my audiobooks but this Storytel platform also looks good. Thanks for sharing! (Reens)
I love listening to audiobooks, they provide such an immersive feel as you read the book along. Some of the amazing storyteller are out there which make the book very interesting, especially if you have a wide cast. I have been listening to audiobook for 2 years and storytel is one of the app i regularly use.
I love to listen audiobooks while doing my domestic work.. it really uplift my mood, specially some motivational one. And you come up with complete basket. Loved it.
I love podcasts because you can listen to them whenever you want n wherever you want
Iam now switching to audible books. This way I can reduce my screen time as well as improve my listening skills.
Audio books are really reliable, it safe times and even reduce screen time. Due to listening to audio books, I have also started listening to podcast too. I really enjoyed it. Thank you for sharing such an insightful and amazing blog.
I am an avid reader and absolutely love listening to audio books. Unlike traditional books, on can listen to them while doing other tasks….
Honestly I don't know about audiobook 🤦♀️ I first-time read about this and really thankful that we always get something new to learn. I'll definitely try to listen this audiobook 🤗❤️❤️
I am planning to switch back to my reading habit. And i have heard a lot about the audiobooks that are available! Will be looking forward to get something to read there as it looks quite interesting and a better option 🦋
This is really amazing to hear….now switching to audible books. This way I can reduce my screen time as well as improve my listening skills.
This is really a better and perfct option of audiobooks it really helps in improving our listening skills as well also we can able to do other work aswell ❤️
Though I prefer reading paperbacks but seeing a lot of benefits of audiobooks such as reliability, safe times and even reduce screen time. I am going to give it a try.
Earlier I don't like to read book but after audio books I love the listen it
An avid reader myself i will definitely give storytel a try. The review is well described.
Storytel is really a great app for audio books, I have tried it before the narration is really good 👍 and is also available in my native language
Gone through many audio books in secondary classes in school and I still in love with them. I love listening them.
I've gone through audiobooks as a kid and I used to love them❤️
Woww the ideal of audio books seems so interesting 🥰
I have still not tried audio books, this really seems to be interesting 😍will try it soon
I prefer audi book most of the times😍 it cut short the time and make me dwell into the story generously.
I love the feel of a book in my hand. However audiobooks are soo efficient and time saving. You can multitask while listening to them and no strain on the eyes. Definitely my preference 💕
I tried audio books more than once, but they didn't work for me. I have no idea why. Your review has prompted me to try storytel though. Hope it will help me change my mind.
Mayuri/Sirimiri
I agree with all the benefits of audio books Rakhi and you know, I was thinking since long time to make this part of my routine but somehow, missing it. your post has inspired me to give this it a try. thanks for sharing about storytel app, sounds good to me.
oh yes.. audio books are my recent best buddy. I love to hear the voice and the best part is reduced screen time. I make sure to check out at least 1-2 audio books during weekends
I have never experienced audio books, however thinking to give it a try once. Now your post is encouraging me to start sooner. Storytel seems an ultimate option, especially let me check if my kids are liking it or not. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Archana
archusblog
I too love the idea of audiobooks even I love listening to some Hindi story podcasts, Storytel seems really great option!!
I haven't yet tried audiobooks since I was anxious about the voice overpowering os affecting the narrative. Storytel sounds like a good app to give them a try.
Audio Books are really very useful and an innovative way of listening to stories. Storytel seeems to be an amazing platform. I have still not tried the audio book route, but hope to sooner than later.
Ive tried audio books. Like you have mentioned it's has so many benefits including act as a stress buster. Would definitely check out
I haven't heard audio books yet but I am sure it would be really interesting since all you have to do is just plug it and relax and listen. I have been planning to try an audio book for a while now.
I am a person who always vouched for hard paper books untill I got a kindle as a gift this year and I while I was apprehensive about the transition, I am liking it now and finished reading few books to. I think now it's time for em to even try and check out audible books as that would be the most easiest and convenient way of reaidng/hearing the book.
This is something I haven't tried yet but soon will check out storytel app as I like the features mentioned by you especially the timer and customized book mark. I agree we really need to reduce our screen time and audio books are the best way to do that.
While there are sets of advantages of audio books, I somehow get very distracted. There's a sukoon in holding books, reading them and being transported into the story:)
I was somehow not comfortable with audio books, I need that feel of book in my hand or even the look and feel in a e book. but your post made me rethink and consider giving it a try
I love to listen audio books sometimes as well. I will check out story tell . I wish they have books for all niche .
It's very good that platform like Storytel offers 2lacs + audio books in regional languages everything at one place
They are a convenient alternative to traditional books. Audiobooks are a helpful tool . books They are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of life.
In our childhood, we used to wait for the weekend audio story programs on radio. After that I have never tried that. Audiobooks are surely a great idea.
reading your article i feel that i should also give this a try. so far i have stayed away from audio books but this app seems to be built keeping in mind the reader/listener and should make for a good experience.
I found my lost love of audio books during these tough times. Especially, during cooking or house chores, I love to listen to these.
Great article by the great author, it is very massive and informative but still preaches the way to sounds like that it has some beautiful thoughts described so I really appreciate this article. Get for more information comic books for kids
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Audio books are really reliable, it safe times and even reduce screen time. Due to listening to audio books, I have also started listening to podcast too. I really enjoyed it. Thank you for sharing such an insightful and amazing blog.
Audio books are really reliable, it safe times and even reduce screen time. Due to listening to audio books, I have also started listening to podcast too. I really enjoyed it. Thank you for sharing such an insightful and amazing blog.