Siddhartha

By: Hermann Hesse

Narrated by: Derek Jacobi

Length: 2 hrs and 59 mins

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.

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)

classic for a reason

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

Clarity

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

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

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.

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

Breathtaking

A truly powerful and beautiful story about the difference between knowledge and wisdom. If you are open to it, it will open new worlds within you.

Mesmerizing

I have read this book and saw the movie since my younger days. I listen to it now to remind me that I must continue to think in my older days.
Derek Jacobi’s voice is soothing.

interesting listen

What did you love best about Siddhartha?

encourages you to think creatively and independently

Would you be willing to try another book from Herman Hesse? Why or why not?

probably not, I get his message

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

excellent narration

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

i don't think this would be a good movie

The Noble Path Explained

For us westerners, a simple, beautiful way to begin to understand what the Buddha taught 2500 years ago.

Definitely sublime

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.