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8 apps to bring reading to life

Read graphic novels, browse your local library’s collection or listen to episodic audiobooks

women reading phone
Photo (c) damircudic - Getty

Whether you have a long road trip, miss talk radio or want to listen to something while working, podcasts are for you. There are several genres, from comedy to mysteries, and a wide range of hosts that you can follow. However, navigating over 800,000 podcasts currently available can be difficult, so you need a user-friendly app to find your favorites. Check out our list below for some good choices.

OverDrive

The OverDrive app lets users check out books from their local libraries and read on compatible devices. You can also download movies, TV shows and audiobooks as available. Learn more about this app on the OverDrive website or download for iOS or Android. You can also visit your local library’s homepage to see if it has a relationship with OverDrive.

overdrive app
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Free
  • Read library books on your device

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

Kobo

Kobo sells e-readers ranging in price from $89.99 to $199.99. E-readers are lightweight and glare-free, with a few waterproof models, too. Once you have a Kobo e-reader, you can choose from over 5 million titles to read. Kobo is also available on Apple and Android devices.

kobo app
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Audiobooks and ebooks
  • First audiobook is free

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

Aldiko

Aldiko is an excellent choice for voracious readers looking to save money by comparing prices on books — the app lets users compare prices from several marketplaces. The app is free, but a Premium plan costing $2.99 adds more customization options.

aldiko app
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Good for comparing prices
  • Available for iOS and Android

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

Serial Box

If you’re short on time and prefer audiobooks, Serial Box is a great choice. Serial Box divides audiobooks into short 20-minute to 60-minute episodes. The first episode is always free — after that, users pay to unlock the final chapters.

serial box
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Short, episodic audiobooks
  • Focus on sci-fi and fantasy

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

ComiXology

The ComiXology reading app is a little different from your run-of-the-mill reading app — its focus is on comics, manga and graphic novels, including family-friendly choices and comic book essentials. ComiXology, an Amazon company, also has original content only available through that platform.

comiXology
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Read graphic novels
  • Free original titles for Amazon Prime members

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

Bookfunnel

Bookfunnel is a choice for readers who want to read indie releases while the titles are still a bit under the radar. Authors often release free excerpts, teaser chapters and other tidbits on Bookfunnel. The app is also geared toward new authors looking for a receptive audience.

bookfunnel
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Focus on indie authors
  • Starts at $20 a year

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

Starfall Learn to Read

Is your child learning to read? Starfall is a great app for those looking to help young children graduate to more complex books. Starfall has instructional reading kits, practice books and beginner books. Paper books are also available on the Starfall website.

starfall app
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Great for young readers
  • Available in app or browser

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

Amazon Kindle

You’ve probably heard of Amazon Kindle, but it’s worth reminding of just how great it can be. Kindle devices like the Paperwhite have weeks of battery life. Kindles aren’t flashy, and that’s a good thing for readers who avoid flashy devices and just want to read.

amazon kindle
Photo (c) Apple App Store
  • Affordable Kindle e-readers
  • Millions of titles

Download on iOS

Download on Andriod

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