Granted, you could go to iTunes and buy an audio book. But there are lots of books you can get for free, in the public domain at LibiriVox.org.

Created in 2005 by Hugh McGuire, LibriVox.org has volunteers who record chapters of books (in the public domain) and post them to the internet for free. If you'd like to volunteer to record a chapter, all you need is a computer, some free recording software and a voice. Anyone can volunteer; you're accepted no matter what accent or language you speak.

The LibriVox homepage is set up so that you can find a book quickly. On the "Listen" column, simply click on "LibriVox Catalog" and then search by title or author. Another approach -- check "Browse Entire Catalog". Here you get a list of completed works, in alphabetical order. Once you locate the book you're looking for, you'll find it's divided into separate chapters. That means you can download an entire book via the catalog, subscribe through iTunes or get an installment through their podcast.

Whatever way you go, this is another reason to get an iPod or Nano. It give a whole new meaning to "pocket" book. Or, is this the new earth-friendly "paperback".