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

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.

a great journey

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

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.

Timeless story, great narration.

A timeless story I revisit every few years, Siddhartha has hit me in different ways at different points in my life. And Derek Jacobi's narration was perfect, (although the audio engineering had some rough spots).

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