I have several pastor friends who quit reading. Not completely. But if I recommend a book, they respond, “Is that available as an audiobook?”
They tout the benefits of audiobooks. Listening to a book allows them to multi-task. The daily commute becomes an opportunity to learn. Time on the treadmill doesn’t just strengthen their bodies but their minds, if they listen to an audiobook at the same time.
But does listening to an audiobook yield the same benefits as reading a book?
As someone who has take the time to read her own books in a studio—and yes, it takes about two days, 213 cough lozenges, and 3 gallons of water, to read one book, I recently did a little research.
Lots of people have opinions on this subject, but I wanted to see what more scientific studies revealed.
One study divided participants into two groups. One group was asked to read a 2000 word essay; another was asked to listen to a 2000 word essay. In the end, both groups were able to summarize the content with equal accuracy.
According to Forbes, another study found a strong correlation between reading comprehension and listening comprehension. They go hand in hand.
Yet many people claim advantages with reading a book over listening.
But one psychological professor, Dan Willingham, is committed to debunking this myth.
He suggests that even though people may feel like they learn through one medium more than another, such as a podcast versus reading a magazine, the fact is they rarely take into account the surrounding activities affect comprehension. In other words, that multitasking while reading an audiobook may be taking more of a toll than realized.
But on the flip side, people tend to be more like to stick with a book they’re listening to than reading. So that can lead to more learning and comprehension overall.
The verdict is out.
But if you, like my pastor friends, prefer audiobooks, know that Scouting the Divine, The Sacred Echo, Hungry for God, and The Organic God are all available as audiobooks—and yes, I took the time to read them all myself. Sorry for the stumbles, and clicking cough drops, and oopsies along the way.
But for all of you who still love the printed page or electronic page, know that I’m right there with you. I love to see the words, too.
We want to introduce you to seven DVD Bible studies that small groups, Bible studies, and Sunday School classes around the country have been using to grow in their faith, knowledge of the Bible, and love of God. Email jessica@margaretfeinberg.com and we’ll give you access to the complimentary DVD Sampler from Margaret Feinberg.
Not only do I love to see the words … but I love to feel the pages too. I have a Kindle and a Kindle Fire … and I have to be honest – I read books much more efficiently with them. BUT – I miss the pages. I miss actively underlining the parts that hit me. So I usually end up buying a paper copy of the books I’m really digging electronically. Ha – I sound like I’m an old lady not willing to “get with the times.” I can’t help it … there’s just something about turning the pages that makes me giddy. 🙂
Wow…the wonder of God….I love how He ‘hides’ treasures until we are ready to receive them…I have just come across your writings…I thought to myself….how have I missed her…but then I knew …God dropped you into my life when I was ready to drink deeply of Him through your writings. I don’t even know where I want to start…I have listened to the trailers to your many DVD series and I want to do all of them. But I think I might start with downloading a couple of audio books. I love reading the words…but there is something special about hearing the words…from the authors heart. Ann Voskamp’s book started this undoing in me…I devoured her book…then I listened to her heart read to me…powerful…and I have the feeling it will be the same listening to you. Look forward to working my way through some of your writings. Blessings and grace to you~
I have a Kindle Fire too and I really enjoy using it but I think I’m going to purchase hard copies of books I really love.
As for audio books, I don’t have any and besides the Bible I can’t think of any that I’d want. I suppose works of fiction would be enjoyable in audio format.
You’re right, Dan. I think audiobooks depend a lot on who is reading it– if it is a dull, monotonous voice, I’d stick to reading the hard copy. But if it is a reader who is engaged and excited, I think listening to fiction would be a great idea.
You are the sweetest, Ro. Thank you for your kind words. God is so good!
I love the feel of a worn book page and the musty smell of a book. I’m with you, Crystal!
I just finished listening to a sample from one of your audio books and I have to say it is hoot hearing you reading your own words! 🙂 so fun.
I really love to read a book! Everything is quiet and it helps me to relax! If I was commuting or needed something while I exercised, I would probably love audiobooks! I love to write in my books! I write words that jump out at me or sometimes words to look up, and I also like to write what I feel…sort of journal in them! I just like to feel the pages and reread pages if I want! 🙂
I agree, Renee. I need to be able to underline, highlight, dog-ear, and write notes as I read. An audiobook makes it a little more difficult.
It is always weird to hear your own voice! So bizarre. Thanks for listening!
Margaret,
I like both. I have listened to a number of books and for the most part, have enjoyed the experience. The one or two occasions when I didn’t enjoy it was when the reader seemed detached and monotone.
If the subject matter of the book is long on explanation and has few stories, etc., I probably prefer to read the material in book form where I can mark key words, etc.
(Wonder Struck arrived yesterday and is the desk in front of me.)
Yes– you can tell if a reader doesn’t enjoy what their reading, it rubs off! Cannot wait to hear what you think about Wonderstruck, Jim!
alexdombroff@alexanderdombroff.com
Please keep recording audiobooks. As a person who loves to learn, but struggles to read (dyslexic) audiobooks make learning so much more enjoyable.
I love audiobooks and have listened to more books lately than I have sat down and read in a long time. And it’s a lot easier to re-read or re-listen to audiobooks. Books in audio form are pushed up to the top of my list. I never needed the tactile feel holding a book, but when I am studying something I do like to highlight it or write it down. Being a techie, I just type down notes as I go. It’s worked so far. To each their own right?
I’d love to have an audio of any book especially one of Margaret’s. I walk my dog and run and instead of listening to music, listening to an audio and learning and experiencing the wonder of God energizes me and spurs me on physically and mentally too! Thanks, I’m thinking of downloading your audios!
alo 789: alo789in – alo789
Mexican Pharm Inter reliable mexican pharmacies buying from online mexican pharmacy
cheapest online pharmacy india india pharmacy without prescription online pharmacy india
http://interpharmonline.com/# best online canadian pharmacy
india online pharmacy store: india pharmacy without prescription – india pharmacy without prescription
canadian drug InterPharmOnline canadian pharmacy no rx needed
MexicanPharmInter buying from online mexican pharmacy Mexican Pharm International
canadian drugstore online: most reliable canadian online pharmacies – canadian pharmacy meds
Generic100mgEasy Generic 100mg Easy buy generic 100mg viagra online
Kamagra kamagra jelly kopen kamagra gel kopen
kamagra gel kopen: kamagra pillen kopen – kamagra kopen nederland
Buy Cialis online cialis without a doctor prescription TadalafilEasyBuy.com
http://generic100mgeasy.com/# buy generic 100mg viagra online
KamagraKopen.pro kamagra jelly kopen KamagraKopen.pro
kamagra pillen kopen kamagra 100mg kopen kamagra jelly kopen
Officiele Kamagra van Nederland: kamagra kopen nederland – kamagra kopen nederland