Want to enjoy your favorite books without lifting a finger? Alexa can help! This guide dives deep into how Alexa can read your Kindle books, Audible audiobooks, and even library books through Libby, turning your home into a personal audiobook haven.
Using Alexa to Read Your Kindle Books
Yes, Alexa can read your Kindle books aloud! This hands-free feature is perfect for multitasking while cooking, cleaning, or exercising. Here’s how to get started:
- Ensure your Kindle and Alexa accounts are linked. This is usually done automatically if you use the same Amazon account for both services.
- Open the Alexa app. You can use this on your smartphone, tablet, or even some Amazon Echo devices with screens.
- Navigate to the “Play” section. This is often found in the bottom navigation bar.
- Select “Kindle Library.” This will display a list of your purchased Kindle books.
- Choose the book you want Alexa to read. Simply tap on the title, and Alexa will begin narrating.
Listening to Audible Books with Alexa
Alexa seamlessly integrates with Audible, allowing you to listen to your purchased audiobooks. To listen to an Audible book:
- Make sure your Audible account is connected to Alexa. You can do this in the Alexa app under Settings > Music & Podcasts > Audible.
- Use a voice command. Simply say, “Alexa, read [Audiobook Title] from Audible.”
Even if you don’t have an Audible subscription, you can still enjoy free audiobooks offered through Audible on Alexa.
Enjoying Library Books on Alexa with Libby
Libby allows you to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library. To listen to Libby books on Alexa:
- Download the Libby app and link it to your library card.
- In the Alexa app, go to Settings > Music & Podcasts > Libby.
- Follow the instructions to connect your Libby account to Alexa.
- Ask Alexa to read your borrowed book. Say, “Alexa, read [Book Title] from Libby.”
Compatible Devices for Alexa Book Reading
Alexa’s book-reading capabilities are available on a wide range of devices:
- Amazon Echo devices: Echo Dot, Echo Show, Echo Studio, etc.
- Fire TV devices: Fire TV Stick, Fire TV Cube.
- Smartphones and Tablets: With the Alexa app installed.
- Third-party Alexa-enabled devices: Some smart speakers and displays.
Useful Alexa Commands for Book Reading
Control your listening experience with these commands:
- “Alexa, pause/resume.”
- “Alexa, go back/forward [X] minutes/seconds.”
- “Alexa, next/previous chapter.”
- “Alexa, increase/decrease the reading speed.”
- “Alexa, what’s the reading speed?”
Frequently Asked Questions About Alexa and Book Reading
Q: What types of books can Alexa read?
A: Alexa can read Kindle books, Audible audiobooks, and library books borrowed through Libby.
Q: How do I get Alexa to start reading a book?
A: Use voice commands like “Alexa, read [Book Title]” or navigate through the Alexa app to select your book. Make sure your accounts are linked for Kindle, Audible, and Libby.
Q: Can I listen to books on multiple Alexa devices?
A: Yes, but generally only one device can play audiobooks at a time using the same Amazon account. Features like Amazon Household can allow for simultaneous playback in different areas.
Conclusion
Alexa offers a convenient way to enjoy books hands-free. Whether you prefer Kindle, Audible, or Libby, Alexa can bring your favorite stories to life. With simple voice commands and a wide range of compatible devices, immersing yourself in a book has never been easier.
