Book description
NATIONAL BESTSELLER2022 Winner of the Golden Poppy Award for Nonfiction (California Independent Booksellers Alliance) A revelatory, urgent narrative with national implications, exploring the decline of California's largest utility company that led to countless wildfires -- including the one that destroyed the town of Paradise -- and the human cost of infrastructure failure Pacific Gas and Electric was a legacy company built by innovators and visionaries, establishing California as a desirable home and economic powerhouse. In California Burning, Wall Street Journal reporter and Pulitzer finalist Katherine Blunt examines how that legacy fell apart--unraveling a long history of deadly failures in which Pacific Gas and Electric endangered millions of Northern Californians, through criminal neglect of its infrastructure. As PG&E prioritized profits and politics, power lines went unchecked--until a rusted hook purchased for 56 cents in 1921 split in two, sparking the deadliest wildfire in California history. Beginning with PG&E's public reckoning after the Paradise fire, Blunt chronicles the evolution of PG&E's shareholder base, from innovators who built some of California's first long-distance power lines to aggressive investors keen on reaping dividends. Following key players through pivotal decisions and legal battles, California Burning reveals the forces that shaped the plight of PG&E: deregulation and market-gaming led by Enron Corp., an unyielding push for renewable energy, and a swift increase in wildfire risk throughout the West, while regulators and lawmakers pushed their own agendas. California Burning is a deeply reported, character-driven narrative, the story of a disaster expanding into a much bigger exploration of accountability. It's an American tragedy that serves as a cautionary tale for utilities across the nation--especially as climate change makes aging infrastructure more vulnerable, with potentially fatal consequences.
New Magoo
This app's customizable features, like playback speed and bookmarks, have transformed my experience. π± Carrying stories in my pocket β this app's convenience is a game-changer! πποΈ
Texas Butterfly
I'm amazed at how this app has made reading fit into every aspect of my life. πΆπ Replacing tunes with stories β my house is alive with the sound of narration! π§π ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically adds a visual touch to my audiobook collection. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature is a time-saving convenience that I greatly appreciate. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to jump between sections.
SunnySnap
ListenBook's sleek interface and precise controls make it a joy to use during my daily listening sessions. With this app, I can switch seamlessly between my iPhone and iPad, making my reading experience continuous. 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. π±π This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark featureβit saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Amphibi-Dangerous
ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. π§ββοΈβ Unwinding with a cup of tea and a captivating audiobook β relaxation meets intellectual stimulation. π΅π ListenBook's intuitive layout and quick access to chapters make audiobook navigation a breeze. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature for those who enjoy organized and structured listening. The appβs design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
Red Hot Kevorkian
The speed adjustment feature is my secret weapon for studying complex materials. The adjustable playback speed is a revelation. It's like having a personal audiobook narrator at my pace. A middle-of-the-road audiobook that neither impressed nor disappointed. The narrator's voice was agreeable enough for extended listening, though their character differentiation could have been stronger. The production met basic industry standards without any standout qualities.
Petite Flurry
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. Thanks to ListenBook, I'm now exploring different genres and formats I never thought I would. CUE playlist support is a fantastic organizational feature. It keeps my audiobooks neatly arranged. ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. It's an indispensable part of my routine. The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy.
Baby Spell
Audiobooks have made my long commutes enjoyable, and I'm always eager to see what's next. Audiobook immersion simplified β this app's ease of use is a true asset. Unlocking a world of literary wonders β this app's extensive format support and user-centric approach have rekindled my love for books. π±π What a fantastic listening experience! The narrator brought the characters to life with distinct voices and emotional depth. The pacing was perfect - not too fast to lose details, not too slow to become boring. I particularly appreciated how well the narrator conveyed the atmosphere of key scenes.
Cuff Queen
ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. Simplifying audiobook management β this app's functionality is a true asset. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like the app knows what I need. The app is perfect for people who love to multitask. I can listen while cooking.
Chasm Face
ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a thoughtful touch I appreciate. βοΈ Loving the fact that I can learn and listen at the same time β multitasking made easy! π§ π§ ListenBook has become my ultimate audiobook companion. It enhances every listening session. ListenBook has all the features I need in an audiobook app. My top choice! I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Upper D3ckR
Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. ππ± Looping playback helps me focus on challenging content and grasp complex concepts. A study must-have! The app is so well-designed. Itβs clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
RealmRanger
ππ Exploring stories even with my eyes off the page β this app is a bedtime dream! π΄π§ πΌ Juggling tasks while exploring narratives β this app is my multitasking hero! π»π Efficient audiobook enjoyment β this app's functionality is a revelation. This app is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. The ability to adjust skip intervals and playback speed is fantastic. I also love the auto-bookmark featureβit saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Worth every penny!
Gr8 Flick
Book Groups on ListenBook make it easy to categorize and access my audiobooks. Audiobooks made delightful β this app's usability is a breath of fresh air.
Darling Peacock
ListenBook's looping playback, shuffle feature, and configurable controls make learning a breeze. With ListenBook, my iPhone and iPad have become a gateway to a world of captivating stories. The app's performance is unparalleled. It's like it's tailor-made for my device. Downloading audio from network devices is a brilliant feature. It's incredibly convenient. One of the best audiobooks Iβve heard! The story was compelling, and the narratorβs delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Delicious
ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. π Embracing a new reading habit with this app's seamless accessibility. Say goodbye to boredom! π±π ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives. Book groups are a thoughtful addition. They help me keep related titles together for a seamless experience. ListenBook has all the features I need. My go-to audiobook app!
Landfill Max
The layout of ListenBook is so beautiful and user-friendly, making it a pleasure to use. I can't believe how convenient this app has made my reading experience. Effortless audiobook exploration β this app's design is a reader's dream. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. With ListenBook Pro, I'm no longer limited by audiobook length. It's a liberating experience!
Tomcat
I'm enjoying books I never thought I'd be interested in β all thanks to this app. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, making even the busiest days enjoyable. Bookmarks are a must-have for any audiobook lover. They help me stay organized and engaged. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a game-changer. It's like customizing my listening experience. The app is very intuitive. ListenBook makes finding and playing audiobooks simple.
Sβmore Vixen
ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have taken my audiobook journey to new heights. With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. Adjusting playback speed has given me greater control over my audiobook experience. I can optimize my learning and enjoyment by customizing the pacing.
Lady Peach
Audiobooks have become my preferred way to unwind β and this app is my partner in crime. π My audiobook haven β this app is like a door to endless adventures and knowledge! ππ ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically adds a visual touch to my audiobook collection.
Cinder Coffee
With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my downtime more enriching and meaningful. βοΈ Kudos to the developers for creating an app that's both functional and user-friendly. I can navigate and enjoy my books effortlessly. ππ The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content. Adjustable playback speed is a fantastic feature. It allows me to customize my listening experience. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldnβt necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
Electric Saturn
Audiobooks have turned road trips into unforgettable journeys of imagination. ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an indispensable tool for my audiobook enjoyment.
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