Please open https://hotaudiobook.com ONLY on your standard browser Safari, Chrome, Microsoft or Firefox to download full audiobooks of your choice for free.

Title: Siddhartha

Author: Hermann Hesse

Narrator: Derek Jacobi

Format: Abridged

Length: 3 hrs

Language: English

Release date: 12-16-99

Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Ratings: 4.5 of 5 out of 126 votes

Genres: Religion & Spirituality, Buddhism & Eastern Religions

Publisher's Summary:

This compelling spiritual quest by Hermann Hesse, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1946, is considered one of the most important works of 20th century fiction. Siddhartha's search for enlightenment leads him to the river of life itself. On his journey he learns from many teachers: the ascetic Samanas, the all-knowing Gotama the Buddha, Kamala the lovely courtesan, and Vasudeva the simple ferryman. Unwilling to accept the wisdom of others, Siddhartha comes to an understanding of himself and his place in the universe, finally achieving the enlightened state of mind in which he can say to his lifelong friend: "The world, Govinda, is perfect at every moment."

(P)1986 by The Audio Partners Publishing Corp.

Critic Reviews:

"No living English-speaking actor outshines Derek Jacobi, nor any audiobook reader for that matter. He sings, rather than speaks, with extraordinary lyricism, expressiveness, and depth." (AudioFile)

Members Reviews:

Choosing an audio version of Siddhartha

Audible currently offers 4 versions of Hermann Hesse's, "Siddhartha". I'd like to help you with your selection.

Derek Jacobi brilliantly breathes life into the current edition. The reading is stellar, making this by far the recommended choice. Caveat: this version is abridged.

As for the unabridged versions:

Fidrous Bamji: If you must choose an unabridged version, this is the best of the lot. The narration is pleasing to the ear, but simply lacks the magic of Jacobi's rendition.

James Langton: TOO FAST. Langton literally speed narrates the story, leaving you with a throbbing headache by the time he's done.

Harish Bhimani: Bhimani sounds too self-indulgent, seems to be in love with his own voice. Pronunciation and inflection are questionable. The translation sounds flat, dead, worn.

Beautiful

Jacoby's voice is exquisite. Despite being an abridged version, this is absolutely worth the listen. And a re-listen...

Great story, horid narrater

Would you try another book from Herman Hesse and/or Derek Jacobi?

I like Herman Hesse & will continue to read his books

Who was your favorite character and why?

The wise boat man, he had already walked his path & was, where we all strive to be.

Would you be willing to try another one of Derek Jacobis performances?

no

What reaction did this book spark in you? Anger, sadness, disappointment?

Consideration of life

Great Book

I liked the voice of the reader. This is a beautiful book. People with connection to the indian subcontinent would enjoy this completely

Blown Away. Everything I hope for in a story.

If you could sum up Siddhartha in three words, what would they be?

Life eternal: om.

What did you like best about this story?

The way all things come into One in the end.

The conclusion gave me chills. It is exhilarating, exciting, and peaceful.

The whole story arc of Siddharta is beautiful. I love the concept of listening to the river. I loved the ferry boatman. I loved the art of listening.

What does Derek Jacobi bring to the story that you wouldnt experience if you just read the book?

Derek Jacobi is the best narrator there is.

His gentle expression, deep understanding, and simple voice make his work stand out among all others.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes.