The demand for digital audio (音频的) books is growing very rapidly. Let’s first look at why this has happened. The busy lifestyle leaves us little time to sit down and read a paper book. Besides, we all have time in the day when we are not really busy mentally. Therefore, we listen and “read” when doing other things.
An audio book, read by a professional narrator who is telling you the story, is an ideal way to “read” books that you wanted to read for long but that lack of time did not permit you to read. Storytelling has a very long tradition and with the new technology, it is gaining popularity again.
“For many people, listening to an audio book is an opportunity to hear an author firsthand,” says Mary Beth Roche, president of the Audio Publishers Association. “It’s like having the very best lecture series, not just in your own town, but in your own car or home — and at your command, they’ll read when YOU are ready to listen.”
Audio books used to be thought of as limited special products for only the blind and sight-impaired (视力受损的) or for kids and lazy people who either can not or do not want to read themselves. This has greatly changed over the last few years. A study found that the average listener of audio books is about 45 years of age and has an average yearly income of over $50,000, and at least a college education and often more advanced degrees. And these people have practical knowledge or understanding of the Internet.
Moreover, audio books are especially good for children who hate to read because of problems in school. That way they are familiar with the adventure of using their own imagination to paint their mental pictures of what they hear, rather than just staring at the TV screen. Also, if they have the book and the audio, reading along can help them overcome reading problems.
12. Who most probably like digital audio books?
A.People who love high-tech products. |
B.People who prefer listening to stories. |
C.People who read anytime and anywhere. |
D.People who cannot spare time for reading. |
13. How is paragraph 4 mainly developed?
A.By doing experiments. | B.By giving examples. |
C.By analyzing causes. | D.By making comparisons. |
14. What do digital audio books help children do?
A.Reduce their screen time. | B.Raise their interest in reading. |
C.Develop their imagination. | D.Improve their listening skills. |
15. Which can be a suitable title for the text?
A.Audio Books — A Popular Choice Now |
B.Audio Books — An Alternative to Paper Books |
C.Audio Books — A New Source of Knowledge |
D.Audio Books — A New Idea about Reading |