Is listening to an audiobook, considered "reading"?

[Kristin]

As was pointed out earlier, stories were mostly transmitted orally, but we have so many other distractions than listening.

I've listened to audiobooks (sometimes I still call them Books on Tape!) for a long time, mostly because the radio in my car didn't work very well and I had a half hour commute, so it was music or books (or AM radio!). I listened to all categories and many "classics" that may never have read otherwise.

The narrator absolutely makes all the difference in the world, but I think I get as much if not more out of an audiobook thank a traditional book.

Reading is reading, regardless of the medium. I also grew up listening to chapter a day on public radio when we lived far out in the country and didn't have TV, so that was similar.

[Marius]

I've asked this very same question on my Google+ feed, anyone with accounts are welcome to vote (and comment) there as well.

[Slick]

I count it as reading. Haha

[Marvin]

I have read many books when I was in school, it was a great way for me to pass the time. When I tried to read again, my ADD (not professionally diagnosed) would keep me from being a fast reader. I would get easily sidetracked. I would also get impatient and read ahead. And worst of all, I would skim without even knowing I was doing it. Also, I could never find a comfortable way to read. Once the Kindle came out, I began to read quite a bit, however, I found that I was still getting the same issues. Staring at a computer screen or phone wasn't ideal. Once Audible came out, it became the answer to my prayers. I can now listen while doing almost doing anything. Listening to the books (when you have a good reader) let's me focus on what I think the author is trying to do. Put myself in the world of the book.

I have no problem of saying I am not a strong reader. I will say that I listen to books not read them. But I will ALSO say that I do not think one is better then the other. I personally think that for me, listening suits my needs better.

[Caitlin]

As my local library poster says "audiobooks are not cheating". Also, reading by listening is valid. Although we associate that with kids, adults also enjoy it and may need it. I also believe they are because you are just using a different format to read the same material.

[Joyce]

My vision is fading. I am 71 and read more books than ever now. If it weren't for kindle and audio books I would have had to give up reading.