Book description
Winner of the Studs and Ida Terkel PrizeA groundbreaking look at how ordinary people are fighting back against their local and state governments to keep their communities safe, by an award-winning journalist Most Americans are likely to encounter the effects of government malfeasance or neglect close to home-from their governors, mayors, town councils, school boards, police, and prosecutors. In fact, deals shrouded in darkness are regularly made at the state and local levels, often the result of closed-door discussions between governments and industry without any scrutiny whatsoever from the public. Too often, as this groundbreaking new work of investigative reporting reveals, residents are intentionally kept on the outside, struggling to get information about significant issues affecting their communities-from car crashes and dirty drinking water, to failing safety gear-until the backroom deals are done and it's too late to challenge them. A work of riveting narrative nonfiction based on years of original reporting, Backroom Deals in Our Backyards tells the story of five "accidental activists"-people from across the United States who started questioning why their local and state governments didn't protect them from issues facing their communities and why there was a frightening lack of transparency surrounding the way these issues were resolved. The secret deals, lies, and corruption they uncover shake their faith in government but move them to action. For readers of Chain of Title and Superman's Not Coming, Spivack's revealing take on a hidden dimension of American politics will outrage and educate anyone who cares about the forces shaping their own communities.
Steel
The app's compatibility with various devices ensures I never miss a moment of my book. Thanks to this app, listening to audiobooks has become a delightful habit. ListenBook's customizable audio filters are a game-changer for tailoring my audiobook playback. ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace.
Cowboy Booter
The ability to switch between devices seamlessly is a game-changer for busy readers. 📚 Embracing reading in the digital age – this app makes accessing books a seamless and enjoyable experience. 📱🎉 Say goodbye to monotony – this app's diverse format compatibility and intuitive controls have turned every moment into a thrilling audiobook experience. 📱🔊 ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a playful addition that lets me tweak the audiobook experience. I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
Fast FLAK
This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. This app is a treasure trove of knowledge, entertainment, and imagination. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. I love the auto-rewind feature. It’s great for when I zone out.
Firefly
Navigating through my audiobook library is a joy with this app's intuitive interface and easy controls. It's like having a personal reading companion at my side. 📱📖 ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers.
Jungle King
It's impressive how the app caters to both seasoned readers and newcomers. 🎶📚 The harmony between simplicity and functionality in this app is truly impressive. Audiobooks have never sounded this good! 🎵🎧 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature simplifies the process of adding new audiobooks to my collection. My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch.
Call Back Queen
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. 🏝️ Basking in the sun while indulging in literary adventures – this app makes outdoor relaxation even better. ☀️📖 ListenBook has rekindled my passion for learning. I'm exploring new topics every day.
Sun Lemon
I've found hidden gems in genres I never thought I'd be interested in. I'm hooked on this app's effortless downloading process – I can have my favorite audiobooks in seconds.
Commando
With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. Talk about convenience! This app's ease of use and support for multiple audio formats ensure that I can enjoy my favorite stories without any hassle. 📱🔊 Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a joy to use. It's a seamless experience. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient. A perfectly acceptable audiobook that fulfilled its purpose. The narration was competent if not particularly memorable, and the production quality was standard for the genre. It served as decent background entertainment during mundane tasks.
Cool Law Topping
This app is a lifesaver! I can now enjoy my favorite books on the go. I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. They help me keep related titles together for a seamless experience. Looping playback helps me immerse myself in the content. It's my secret study weapon.
QuestWeaver
I'm thrilled to finally have a way to enjoy books while keeping up with my busy schedule. Language courses on audiobooks helped me pick up a new language effortlessly. ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable. ListenBook's commitment to a seamless user experience is evident in its sleek design and intuitive controls.
New Magoo
ListenBook's sleek interface and precise controls make it a joy to use during my daily listening sessions. This app's sleek design and intuitive features make it my trusted partner in exploring new narratives. The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
Jigsaw
I'm able to enjoy books in a whole new way – while cooking, working out, or even gardening. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my audio content much more enjoyable in noisy environments.
DanimalDaze
ListenBook's support for a wide range of formats means I can listen to all my favorite content without worries. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. It’s a fun feature.
SpellTansy
This app's convenience has transformed my reading habits – it's a game-changer. I can't get enough of ListenBook's silky-smooth playback and intuitive design. It's my go-to app for both leisurely listening and study sessions. Bookmarking favorite parts of audiobooks is a breeze. It's like having a personalized study guide.
Eye Devil
This app is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts. The interface is intuitive, and the playback is seamless! Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook! Easy chapter navigation and beautiful design make this app stand out.
Pixy Mox
ListenBook has taken my listening pleasure to new heights – it's a true audio marvel. Seamless audiobook integration – this app's design is a true delight. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey. ListenBook’s playback speed control is very useful. I can listen at my own pace.
Captain Peroxide
It's like having a personal library that fits in my pocket – truly amazing! 📱 A world of books at my fingertips – this app's user-friendly design makes it a true reading companion. 📚📱 Effortlessly immersing in stories – this app's ease of use is a game-changer. This app is like a personal audiobook concierge! The ability to download and organize audio files effortlessly is a game-changer for my reading routine. 📱📖
Sun Washer
I'm rediscovering my love for literature through this app – it's revitalizing. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. 🏝️ Soaking up the sun with an audiobook by my side – beach days just got better! 🏖️📖 ⏰ Maximizing my time with efficient features – this app's functionality lets me dive into stories even in the busiest moments. 📚⏳ I love the ability to share my progress with friends. It’s a fun feature.
Maple Destroyer
The sound quality is outstanding – it's like having a movie theater in my ears! With ListenBook, I can effortlessly manage and organize my audiobook library. 🎉 An app that turns house chores into exciting adventures – count me in! 🧹📖 Every moment is a chance to explore new stories with this app. Its intuitive features and compatibility ensure my audiobook journey is seamless. 🌌🎧
Mr. Thanksgiving
ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience