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Free Audio Books: Read With Your Ears
I often meander to the library with high ambitions. I check out two books, with an expectation that I’ll read them both before they’re due. Within two weeks I’m back at the library, extending my book loan and wishing I had the time to be as well read as I aspire to be. If there was only a way to read while I’m driving, taking a shower, and mowing the lawn…
To my delight, there is a way. Audio books! Anyone that has used iTunes or Audible.com knows that the selection of audio books (formerly known as books on tape/CD) is expansive. Just type in an author’s name or book title, and load up your iPod, Zune, or other media device and go! Many of the newest titles are read by authors or celebrities which makes for a wonderful experience. As times are tough, I’m making less purchases and audio books were the first expense to go. Is it back to the library again? Almost, until I discovered Librivox, a free open-source depository for public domain audio books. read more
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The Fair that Changed America
It’s not often I turn to non-fiction for entertainment. I’m a fan of documentaries and how-to books, but I tend to keep informational reading to short articles or magazines. I recently came across Erik Larson’s book, The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Maddness at the Fair that Changed America, and was floored. Not only is the book a history lesson, its a compelling murder mystery with novel-like twists.
The book is centered around the events of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, or as its better known, the World’s Colombian Exposition. Rich details about the daily lives, interests, and motivations help to flesh out what life was really like. The book leads up to Chicago’s attempt to gain prominence in the world by hosting the upcoming World’s Fair. The rivalry between the Windy City and New York is tense, as each argues over their cultural importance. In the end, Chicago secures its position as host of the fair and the story beings to unfold. read more