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Siddhartha

By: Hermann Hesse
Narrated by: Derek Jacobi
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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."

Public Domain (P)1986 Blackstone Audio, Inc.
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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)

What listeners say about Siddhartha

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classic for a reason

Great performance
great literature
a lovely look into the human condition
good words to ponder for teens and adults alike

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Clarity

This novel is a good start for those seeking clarity of heart and soul.

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Decades later

I’ve had a goal to read this book for 3 decades. I’ve started it multiple times and had yet to complete it. Now was my time. I had it read to me with enchanting narration by Derek Jacobi. First experience with Audible. Great listen while doing yoga. Sincerely, Mieke

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Enlightening Book!

This book is, quite simply, deeply spiritual. I read it as a teenager and listened to it now, at 65. I enjoyed it immensely each time. It is beyond religion and goes straight to the core of spirituality. It should be a timeless classic. Perhaps it is?
Anyway, I couldn’t stop listening until the very end.

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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.

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1000s of pages of Dharma in an easy to listen form

1000s of pages of Dharma in an easy to listen format. I will definitely listen to it again.

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Herman Hesse at his best!

The performative British accent of the narrator may take some getting used to, but overall it fits the story well.

If you enjoyed Demian or Narcissus and Goldmund you will like Siddhartha.

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wonderful story well executed.

as a devoted Christian and follower of Christ, there are many aspects that overlap with Buddhism and I enjoy studying those. this is a well done story with an excellent narrator.

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a great journey

great job Derek, a pleasure to listen to. I just wish the chapter changes were announced.

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A Noble Book

From time to time I read this book. All of our individual journeys unto spiritual and natural wholeness ennoble us. And yes, we all do this. Even ones that claim they do not believe in spirit. Buddhism I find is the most honest avenue for dealing with the issue which perpetuates sorrow in life. It goes right to the root of the problem.

I have never found the peace I seek.Like Siddhartha when he meets the Buddha, he acknowledges that finding Self is not to mean also destroying Self. There is a way to cut out our desire without cutting out our souls making us mechanical robots. I just don’t know how to confidently be happy as is in the now. I have a nagging fear I am only going through the motions and convincing myself I have reached enlightenment on very rare occasions (very rare) when I do seem to be at peace. I believe those rare occasions stem more from being momentarily sated than just being in Being.

A very important and noble book. Though we all may fail time and time again in finding unadulterated bliss, we all keep trying.

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