There seems to be a TON of controversy lately about listening to audiobooks versus reading physical books. The debate that’s surrounding this is the act of seeing vs. hearing. Some argue that the essence of reading lies in the act of visually processing words on a page, whereas others believe that it’s the story itself that matters, regardless of the format in which it is consumed. As an advocate for inclusion, a book blogger, and an audiobook lover, I stand firmly in the camp that believes listening to audiobooks is indeed a form of reading, as it allows individuals to celebrate the story, not the format.
Scientific studies have shown that the same cognitive processes are engaged when listening to a book as when reading a physical book. The brain still processes the language, forms mental images, and creates connections between ideas and characters. The act of listening to an audiobook can be just as immersive and intellectually stimulating as reading a printed book. Ultimately, it is the story itself that captivates us, regardless of whether we read it or listen to it.
One of the most captivating aspects of audiobooks is their ability to enhance accessibility for individuals with impairments or disabilities. For individuals with visual impairments, audiobooks offer a means to access and engage with literature that may otherwise be inaccessible to them. By listening to audiobooks, they can experience the same story, word for word, as someone reading it in print. Similarly, individuals with learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, can benefit greatly from audiobooks. The audio format eliminates the challenges they may face when reading printed text. It allows them to fully immerse themselves in the story without struggling with decoding or comprehension.
My take on this:
The format in which we consume a story should be irrelevant. Whether it’s reading a physical book, an e-book, or listening to an audiobook, we’re all falling in love with the same stories, authors, and characters. The power of storytelling lies in its’ ability to transport us to different worlds, bring forth deep emotions, and provoke thoughts – regardless of the format. Let’s embrace the multitude of reading experiences and recognize that listening to audiobooks is a valid, enriching way to engage with literature. After all, it is the story we are chasing, not the format.
