Book description
A groundbreaking journey tracing America's forgotten path to global power―and how its legacies shape our world today―told through the extraordinary life of a complicated Marine. "Far more extraordinary than even the life of Smedley Butler."―The Washington Post Smedley Butler was the most celebrated warfighter of his time. Bestselling books were written about him. Hollywood adored him. Wherever the flag went, "The Fighting Quaker" went--serving in nearly every major overseas conflict from the Spanish War of 1898 until the eve of World War II. From his first days as a 16-year-old recruit at the newly seized Guantánamo Bay, he blazed a path for empire: helping annex the Philippines and the land for the Panama Canal, leading troops in China (twice), and helping invade and occupy Nicaragua, Puerto Rico, Haiti, Mexico, and more. Yet in retirement, Butler turned into a warrior against war, imperialism, and big business, declaring: "I was a racketeer for capitalism." Award-winning author Jonathan Myerson Katz traveled across the world--from China to Guantánamo, the mountains of Haiti to the Panama Canal--and pored over the personal letters of Butler, his fellow Marines, and his Quaker family on Philadelphia's Main Line. Along the way, Katz shows how the consequences of the Marines' actions are still very much alive: talking politics with a Sandinista commander in Nicaragua, getting a martial arts lesson from a devotee of the Boxer Rebellion in China, and getting cast as a P.O.W. extra in a Filipino movie about their American War. Tracing a path from the first wave of U.S. overseas expansionism to the rise of fascism in the 1930s to the crises of democracy in our own time, Gangsters of Capitalism tells an urgent story about a formative era most Americans have never learned about, but that the rest of the world cannot forget.
Bleachers
I'm discovering books I wouldn't have considered before, and my reading horizons are expanding. I'm addicted to this app's curated playlists and recommendations – they're spot on. I love how this app seamlessly integrates into my busy schedule, making multitasking a breeze. The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive. ListenBook has rekindled my passion for learning. I'm exploring new topics every day.
CuriousCrafter
I've found my new favorite way to relax – cuddled up with an audiobook. 🌟 Adding excitement to everyday tasks – this app is my partner in productivity! 📚🚀
Highway
Listening to books in their original language has improved my foreign language skills. 🌟 Adding excitement to each day – this app ensures that every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories. 📚🚀
Marshmallow Treat
With ListenBook, I've found a convenient and enjoyable way to engage with audiobooks and educational content. ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary adventures through stories. With this app, I've found a way to turn every moment into an opportunity for learning and enrichment. Audiobooks made accessible – this app's ease of use is a true blessing. My audiobook collection has never been more organized. Library management is a breeze.
General Broomdog
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. With this app, I've discovered the joy of learning while I'm on the move – it's like having a tutor by my side. The sleep timer is a lifesaver. I fall asleep listening to my books every night.
Burst Nibbler
My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my life so much easier. 🎧 Audiobooks anywhere, anytime – this app's convenience is unbeatable! 🌟📚 👩🍳 Elevating culinary experiences with auditory tales – cooking has never been this entertaining and educational! 🍳🎧 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun and interactive way to bond over stories.
Marshmallow Treat
Listening to audiobooks while gardening has made my outdoor time even more relaxing. Audiobooks have turned my mundane activities into opportunities for learning and enjoyment. 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. 📱📖 The statistics feature in ListenBook provides valuable insights into my audiobook consumption habits.
Divine Bramble
The ability to switch between different books effortlessly is a major plus. Audiobooks have become my go-to entertainment, and this app is the reason. With this app, I've found a way to make long flights and road trips more enjoyable and enlightening. The statistics tracking feature is eye-opening. I never realized how much time I spend on audiobooks until now! Navigating chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and seamless experience.
Blistered Outlaw
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful feature. Sharing is caring! This audiobook was a fantastic listen! The narrator's voice was clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along. The pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow. Perfect for long commutes or relaxing at home. Highly recommend!
RiddleRover
As an audiobook aficionado, this app is a dream come true. Its support for various formats and effortless navigation make it my perfect reading companion. 🌟🎧 ListenBook’s CarPlay support makes listening in the car a seamless experience.
Devil Blade
I'm amazed at how this app's features cater to audiobook enthusiasts' every need. Adjusting playback speed has transformed the way I consume audiobooks. I can tailor the pacing to match my learning style and preferences. Great app for listening to lectures and speeches. Highly useful!
Thunder Nut
This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience. Supports artwork and metadata perfectly. My library looks great!
Sun Runner
I've become so much more productive while cleaning or exercising – thanks to this app! I'm amazed at how this app has made reading fit into every aspect of my life. 🎉📚 Rekindling my passion for books – this app has sparked a reading revolution in my daily life! 🔥📖 ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers.
Spellbinder
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality, providing a clear and immersive listening experience that enhances my enjoyment. I appreciate the statistics feature. ListenBook helps me track my listening habits.
Unleashed
ListenBook's support for various audio formats means I never have to worry about compatibility issues. Audiobooks have never been this accessible – this app is a true innovation. 🔥 Adding a spark of excitement to my daily routine – this app is my secret weapon! ✨📖 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. 📱📖 The app is perfect for multitasking. I can listen while doing other things.
Indigo Red
I can't believe how much I've 'read' since I started using this app. I'm amazed at how effortlessly this app has made reading a constant in my life. Simplifying my audiobook experience – this app's design is remarkable. The seamless integration with CarPlay adds convenience and entertainment during my daily commutes. The narrator's voice was so pleasant and easy to listen to. They had perfect pacing and made even the slower parts engaging. I found myself looking forward to my commute just to listen more!
Tin Mutt
ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have transformed my listening sessions into immersive journeys. Unlocking a world of literary possibilities, this app's extensive compatibility and user-friendly controls have made audiobook enjoyment an everyday joy. 📱🔊 Automatic artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook library. Listening stats feature keeps me motivated to read more. Love it!
Renegade Slugger
I'm hooked on this app's seamless performance – it's like having a personal audiobook curator. 🎉 Rekindling my love for stories – this app's accessibility has reignited my passion! 📖🚀 The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
QuestQuill
I'm amazed at how effortlessly I can immerse myself in stories with this app. 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. 📚🎧 As an audiobook enthusiast, I'm in awe of ListenBook's advanced features. The ability to adjust the reader's voice tone is a unique and fun addition. No need for file conversion is a game-changer. Love using ListenBook on my iPhone. As someone who struggles to focus on audiobooks, this kept my attention the whole way through. The narrator's clear diction and expressive delivery were perfect.
NexusNinja
ListenBook's library organization and book groups make managing my collection effortless. Efficiency and ease combined – this app is a must-have for book lovers. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to share the joy of captivating stories with friends and family. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
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