Book description
Updated to include a new chapter about the influence of social media and the Internet--the 20th anniversary edition of Bowling Alone remains a seminal work of social analysis, and its examination of what happened to our sense of community remains more relevant than ever in today's fractured America. Twenty years, ago, Robert D. Putnam made a seemingly simple observation: once we bowled in leagues, usually after work; but no longer. This seemingly small phenomenon symbolized a significant social change that became the basis of the acclaimed bestseller, Bowling Alone, which The Washington Post called "a very important book" and Putnam, "the de Tocqueville of our generation." Bowling Alone surveyed in detail Americans' changing behavior over the decades, showing how we had become increasingly disconnected from family, friends, neighbors, and social structures, whether it's with the PTA, church, clubs, political parties, or bowling leagues. In the revised edition of his classic work, Putnam shows how our shrinking access to the "social capital" that is the reward of communal activity and community sharing still poses a serious threat to our civic and personal health, and how these consequences have a new resonance for our divided country today. He includes critical new material on the pervasive influence of social media and the internet, which has introduced previously unthinkable opportunities for social connection--as well as unprecedented levels of alienation and isolation. At the time of its publication, Putnam's then-groundbreaking work showed how social bonds are the most powerful predictor of life satisfaction, and how the loss of social capital is felt in critical ways, acting as a strong predictor of crime rates and other measures of neighborhood quality of life, and affecting our health in other ways. While the ways in which we connect, or become disconnected, have changed over the decades, his central argument remains as powerful and urgent as ever: mending our frayed social capital is key to preserving the very fabric of our society.
PP Dubs
With this app, I've found a way to turn every moment into an opportunity for learning and enrichment. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick controls make it my preferred choice for audiobook enjoyment. Finally, an app that understands the power of CUE playlists. Perfect for organizing. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. I can easily jump to the parts I want to listen to. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Swerve
I've fallen in love with literature all over again, thanks to this incredible app. The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that sets this app apart. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
DreamDasher
This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any limitations. Looping playback is a study tool that I can't live without. It helps me master challenging content. Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very pleased. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Hoover Spark
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis. ListenBook has become my constant companion. It's like having a personal audiobook assistant. The app never crashes. Itβs reliable and stable.
Mad Jack
Audiobook multitasking simplified β this app's functionality is truly commendable. An audiobook lover's dream come true! This app's seamless functionality and diverse format support make it my go-to choice for immersive storytelling. ππ§ The interface is sleek and modern. It's a pleasure to navigate and use the app.
Pexxious
Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's elegant design and robust functionality make it a must-have for anyone who loves to listen on the go. π§π± ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven. ListenBook's library organization keeps my audiobooks neat and accessible. A true organizational lifesaver! Noise reduction and voice tone adjustment are excellent additions.
The Happy Jock
The ability to switch between devices seamlessly is a game-changer for busy readers. Thanks to ListenBook's automatic extraction of artwork and metadata, my library looks organized and appealing. A masterclass in audiobook narration! The performer maintained perfect consistency in character voices throughout while keeping the main narration clear and engaging. The production was flawless - no weird edits or background noise. I'll be seeking out more works by this narrator. The narrator was good but spoke a bit too slowly for my taste. I had to speed it up to 1.2x which then made some parts sound slightly unnatural.
Pocket Mazda
I'm amazed at this app's ability to transport me to different worlds through stories. I love that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats, making my library diverse. π Adding excitement to everyday tasks β this app is my partner in productivity! ππ π Ironing has become a joy with audiobooks β wrinkles are no match for these captivating stories! ππ§ The intuitive interface and efficient navigation make this app a pleasure to use every day.
Wooden Man
π± Carrying stories in my pocket β this app's convenience is a game-changer! πποΈ Audiobook immersion without fuss β this app's ease of use is commendable. Audiobooks have become my constant companions, and this app's seamless functionality and diverse compatibility ensure that every tale is a captivating journey. ππ§ This was a workmanlike audiobook that did the job without flair. The narration was clear and the pacing appropriate, though the delivery lacked some emotional depth. The production quality was acceptable with no major technical issues.
Baby Spell
ListenBook has become my trusted companion. It's my go-to app for expanding my knowledge and enjoyment. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
3P-own
ListenBook's support for binaural audio processing is a thoughtful touch that reduces listening fatigue. ListenBook's statistics feature is both enlightening and motivating. It's incredible to see the time I've invested in learning through audiobooks. Looping playback is my favorite feature. It's perfect for revisiting complex content. The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Pearl Girl
πΌ Making every minute count β this app's ease of use ensures I'm always making progress in my audiobook adventures. π±π Unlimited audiobook length with ListenBook Pro is a game-changer.
Goatee Shield
This app has made me appreciate the art of storytelling even more. The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. Enhancing my daily routines β this app's design makes listening a joy. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique and fun feature. I can customize the narration to my liking. ListenBookβs support for Apple Watch is a great touch. I can control my audiobooks on the go.
NexusNomad
With ListenBook, I can immerse myself in captivating stories and enriching knowledge, all in one app. With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. ListenBookβs CarPlay support makes listening in the car a seamless experience. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Nutmeg
This app's compatibility with different file types means that my entire audiobook collection is at my fingertips. No more carrying heavy books β this app has transformed my reading habits. No more limits on the genres I can explore! This app's versatility in downloading and organizing audiobooks ensures I always have a captivating tale at my fingertips. ππ± Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to spread the joy of storytelling. A fun feature! Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional.
Essex
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay makes my daily commute a delightful opportunity to indulge in audiobooks. ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience β it's like having a personal audio library. Iβm so impressed with ListenBook. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Highly recommend this app!
Fuzzy Logic Hottie
With ListenBook, I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. ListenBook's dedication to delivering an exceptional experience is evident in every detail.
Dez
ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. ππ Road trips have never been this entertaining β this app keeps me engaged on the highway! ππ An audiobook lover's dream come true! This app's seamless functionality and diverse format support make it my go-to choice for immersive storytelling. ππ§ The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile.
Reed Lady
Audiobook multitasking made simple β this app's functionality is a true delight. I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs.
Call Back Queen
The chapters feature on ListenBook enhances my audiobook exploration β it's like flipping through pages. ListenBook's versatile features have made my audiobook experience more enjoyable than ever. I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience. π± Carrying stories in my pocket β this app's convenience is a game-changer! πποΈ A wonderful performance! The narrator captured the mood of the book perfectly, making it easy to visualize each scene. The audio quality was crisp, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish.
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