Book description
Halley's Comet visits the earth every seventy-five years. Since the dawn of civilization, humans had believed comets were evil portents. In 1705, Edmond Halley liberated humanity from these primordial superstitions (or so it was thought), proving that Newtonian mechanics rather than the will of the gods brought comets into our celestial neighborhood. Despite this scientific advance, when Halley's Comet returned in 1910 and astronomers announced that our planet would pass through its poisonous tail, newspapers gleefully provoked a global hysteria that unfolded with tragic consequences. In Comet Madness, author and historian Richard J. Goodrich examines the 1910 appearance of Halley's Comet and the ensuing frenzy sparked by media manipulation, bogus science, and outright deception. The result is a fascinating and illuminating narrative history that underscores how we behave in the face of potential calamity - then and now. As the comet neared Earth, scientists and journalists alike scrambled to get the story straight as citizens the world over panicked. Popular astronomer Camille Flammarion attempted to allay fears in a newspaper article, but the media ignored his true position that passage would be harmless; weather prophet Irl Hicks, publisher of an annual, pseudo-scientific almanac, announced that the comet would disrupt the world's weather; religious leaders thumbed the Bible's Book of Revelation and wondered if the comet presaged the apocalypse. Newspapers, confident that there was gold in these alternate theories, gave every crackpot a megaphone, increasing circulation and stoking international hysteria. As a result, workmen shelved their tools, farmers refused to plant crops they would never harvest, and formerly reliable people stopped paying their creditors. More opportunistic citizens opened "comet insurance" plans. Others suffered mental breakdowns, and some took their own lives. Comet Madness reveals how humans confront the unknown, how scientists learn about the world we inhabit, and how certain people--from outright hucksters to opportunistic journalists--harness fear to produce a profit.
Lucky Martian
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. π§ββοΈβ Sipping tea and getting lost in stories β the ultimate way to unwind! π΅π Audiobook immersion without complications β this app's ease of use is commendable. The statistics feature in ListenBook is a valuable tool for monitoring and optimizing my audiobook consumption. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like having a library on my phone!
Teeder
This app has made me realize that I don't need a lot of time to read. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives.
Mint Ness
The absence of synchronization requirements on ListenBook is a breath of fresh air. I can't imagine my daily rituals without this app β it's a constant source of joy.
ThoughtTrail
I can't imagine my daily activities without this app β it's the perfect way to stay engaged and informed. The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive. This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
Cereal Killer
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and seamless playback have made it my go-to app. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a breeze thanks to ListenBook Pro's AirDrop and sharing options. Spread the joy of a good story!
Swampmasher
The diverse selection of audiobooks has made me fall in love with storytelling all over again. πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ
Redneck Giorgio
Audiobooks have become a source of inspiration and motivation, thanks to this app. Looping playback has revolutionized my language learning journey. I'm making rapid progress. I've listened to hundreds of audiobooks, and this one stands out for its professional quality. The narrator struck the ideal balance between dramatic interpretation and letting the text speak for itself. The audio engineering was superb with consistent volume levels and crystal-clear recording.
Coffee
I'm addicted to this app β it's a non-stop journey through captivating tales. This app's sleek design and effortless controls have made audiobook listening an immersive experience. π₯ Elevating my reading routine to new heights β this app is a real page-turner! ππ π Accessing my favorite authors and genres is a breeze with this app's user-friendly functionality. π±π§ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction makes sure that background distractions don't interfere with my listening.
Tart Voodoo
The narrator's voices are so soothing β a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my workouts and downtime more engaging and insightful.
Prone
ListenBook's dedication to delivering high-quality sound and user-friendly features has won me over. ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. I'm amazed at how this app has brought back the joy of reading into my daily routine β thank you! The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook library.
THRESHmSTR
ListenBook's compatibility with various audio formats ensures that I can enjoy a wide range of content hassle-free. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my content wherever I go. With ListenBook, I can keep track of my audiobook consumption and explore new content with ease. I love that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats, making my library diverse. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and visually appealing.
Sleek Assassin
π This app has ignited my passion for reading β I can't get enough of its convenience! ππ₯ The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook library.
Abiss
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch has made my listening experience even more seamless. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my audiobook collection. My study sessions are more efficient than ever, thanks to the looping playback and bookmark features. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a game-changer. It's like customizing my listening experience.
Grinch Cheese
ListenBook's dedication to delivering an exceptional experience is evident in every detail. I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs.
Commando
This app is a boon for book lovers who are always on the go. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature! Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend.
King Panther
The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits β so cool! ListenBook's detailed statistics feature helps me keep track of my listening habits. It's amazing to see how much I've learned from all those audiobooks! The app's performance is beyond impressive. It's like it's tailor-made for my device.
Prof. Smirk
I'm finally making progress on my reading goals, thanks to this app's convenience. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration is a brilliant touch. πΆββοΈπ This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure β I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. ποΈπ Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks. Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful.
Cooger
π§ Making housework more enjoyable β audiobooks turn mundane chores into moments of discovery. π§Ήπ Gone are the days of struggling with formats. Thanks to this app, my audiobook journey is a breeze, and every tale is a tap away. Highly recommended! ππ§ Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time. I love the ability to change the background color. Itβs a nice touch.
Indestructible Potato
Audiobooks have made my morning routine something to look forward to. π Embracing a new reading habit with this app's seamless accessibility. Say goodbye to boredom! π±π Audiobook magic at my fingertips! This app's thoughtful features, such as statistics tracking and audio filters, have added a new layer of excitement to my reading journey. πβ¨ The noise reduction feature is a game-changer for clearer dictaphone recordings.
Little Granger
ListenBook's features make it the ultimate audio companion for any audiobook enthusiast. π Adding excitement to everyday tasks β this app is my partner in productivity! ππ ποΈπ§ Escaping to paradise with a beach read β this app is my vacation in audio form! ποΈπ π My audiobook haven β this app is like a door to endless adventures and knowledge! ππ Finally, an app that handles all my audiobook formats effortlessly. ListenBook is a must-have!
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