Of Course Listening to an Audiobook ‘Counts’ as Reading — And Why the Debate Just Distracts Us From What Matters

Listening to Audiobooks is Just as Valid as Reading a Physical Book

In today’s digital age, the debate over whether listening to an audiobook counts as ‘reading’ has stirred up quite a storm within the book-loving community. Some argue that audiobooks should not be considered for reading tallies, as it involves listening to someone else read, rather than visually scanning the words on a page. However, the distinction between ‘reading’ and ‘listening’ may not be as important as some purists make it out to be.

When discussing reading, the focus should be on the act of engaging with a story or information, regardless of the medium through which it is consumed. Whether one reads a physical book or listens to an audiobook, the essence of the experience remains the same: immersing oneself in a narrative, learning new concepts, or exploring different perspectives. The important thing is to enjoy the process of absorbing content, rather than getting caught up in semantics.

Audiobooks offer a unique dimension to storytelling, with narrators adding their own flair and interpretation to the text. The involvement of professional narrators, authors, and even celebrities in audiobook production can enhance the listener’s experience, bringing characters and plots to life in a way that reading alone may not achieve. Additionally, audiobooks provide a convenient option for individuals on-the-go, allowing them to enjoy literature while performing other tasks like commuting or household chores.

Moreover, audiobooks can be particularly beneficial for individuals with visual impairments, reading difficulties, or learning disabilities, offering them an alternative way to access literary content. In a society where the percentage of adults reading books has shown a decline over the years, any form of engagement with literature should be encouraged and celebrated. Rather than policing how people consume books, the focus should be on fostering a love for reading in all its forms.

The notion that audiobooks do not ‘count’ as reading can sometimes stem from a desire to appear superior or more ‘authentic’ in one’s reading habits. However, reading should not be about meeting arbitrary goals or proving one’s prowess in literary consumption. It should be a personal and enjoyable experience, driven by the love of storytelling and discovery. Whether you listen to audiobooks, read physical books, or opt for e-readers, what matters most is the joy and enrichment you derive from the process.

In conclusion, the debate over audiobooks versus physical books should not overshadow the fundamental purpose of reading: to learn, to escape, and to connect with narratives that inspire and resonate. As individuals, we should embrace all forms of reading and encourage a diverse range of reading preferences without judgement. After all, the magic of storytelling transcends the medium through which it is delivered, making every reading experience valuable in its own right.