Ever since I got a high speed Internet connection, I have been pretty much addicted to downloadable audio books. You see, I work at home as a telephone translator. Basically, much of my time is spent waiting around for clients to call. This gives me plenty of free time, which at first was a good thing. I love being able to relax and work in my pajamas. After awhile, however, I started to go stir crazy. I couldn’t very well take a walk and get my nervous energy out because I might miss a client. That is when something unexpected jumped in and saved me – Terry Pratchett audio books.
In the past I have never been a big fan of listening to books on tape. Most of the companies put out Stephen King books and other similar trashy fare. None of that could really hold my attention. On the other hand, I didn’t really want to listen to Jane Austen Pride and Prejudice on tape either. Audio books make it difficult to go back and reread a word that you missed, and I am not a very good auditory learner. The Terry Pratchett audio books, however, struck just the right balance between highbrow and lowbrow. A terry pratchett audio book is very easy to understand, but some of the ideas are surprisingly interesting and sophisticated.
Most of the Terry Pratchett books, with a couple exceptions, take place in an imaginary location known as Diskworld. It is basically the world as people have often imagined it – it is shaped like a disk and balanced on top of a giant turtle who is swimming through space. The humor is lighthearted satire, making allusions to various people and events throughout human history. Listening to Terry Pratchett audio books simultaneously relaxes you and makes you feel intelligent. That is one thing that is great about Terry Pratchett audio books. I love easy reading that still doesn’t insult your intelligence.
Just because something is light and fluffy doesn’t mean it has to be completely moronic. Terry Pratchett seems to know this as well as anyone else. He is a true master of his craft. Terry Pratchett audio books are very difficult to put down, but also very easy to pick up again. There is always enough going on to capture your interest, but not so much that you need to be deeply involved. In short, they are the perfect listening for my situation.