As long as there has been recorded history, there has been books. That means that enjoying a good book has been a relaxing pass time by many for eons. However, with recent advances in technology, people no longer need to sit with a book sprawled out in front of them and concentrate on the reading the text. Today, people can enjoy books virtually anywhere. How often do you see people reading a novel while jogging compared to seeing people jogging with headphones? There's a good possibility that at least some of these people are enjoying listening to a good audio book while they are out doing their daily run.
With the advent of the Internet and portable mp3 players, the popularity of audio books has reached an all time high. Publishers now are even hiring celebrities to read their publications to increase audio book sales and reach.
One audio book enthusiast took it upon herself to examine the time difference between reading a book and listening to an audio book. She said that listening to an audio book takes about four hours, whereas reading a book takes her about 120 hours. This means that she could listen to about 30 books in the time it takes her to read just one book.
One of the biggest contributors to the popularity of audio books is the fact that one can take in a good book while doing just about anything. Never before could a person enjoy a book while washing the dishes driving or walking the dog. Now, people can enjoy the relaxing effects of a good story anytime, anyplace.
Not only are audio books good for time-restrained book lovers, but they are also a great tool to help teach your child to read. Now you find both text and audio versions of children's books. While an audio book can never compare to a parent reading and guiding his or her child through the words and pictures, audio books often come with sound effects and fun voices that make the reading experience fun for both child and parent. Just like reading a good book, listening to a good audio book can inspire, educate and increase mental alertness.
