An audiobook is a recording of a text being read. A reading of
the complete text is noted as "unabridged", while readings of a reduced
version, or abridgement of the text are labeled as "abridged".
Audiobooks are considered a valuable learning tool because of their
format. Unlike traditional books or a video program, one can learn from
an audiobook while doing other tasks. Such tasks include doing the
laundry and exercising indoors, among others. The most popular general
use of audiobooks by adults is when driving an automobile or traveling
with public transport, as an alternative to radio. Many people listen as
well just to relax or as they drift off into sleep.
A recent survey released by the Audio Publishers Association
found that the overwhelming majority of audiobook users listen in the
car, and more than two-thirds of audiobook buyers described audiobooks
as relaxing and a good way to multitask. Another stated reason for
choosing audiobooks over other formats is that an audio performance
makes some books more interesting.
