Book description
INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER "A new masterpiece from one of my favorite authors... [How The World Really Works] is a compelling and highly readable book that leaves readers with the fundamental grounding needed to help solve the world's toughest challenges."--Bill Gates "Provocative but perceptive . . . You can agree or disagree with Smil--accept or doubt his 'just the facts' posture--but you probably shouldn't ignore him."--The Washington Post An essential analysis of the modern science and technology that makes our twenty-first century lives possible--a scientist's investigation into what science really does, and does not, accomplish. We have never had so much information at our fingertips and yet most of us don't know how the world really works. This book explains seven of the most fundamental realities governing our survival and prosperity. From energy and food production, through our material world and its globalization, to risks, our environment and its future, How the World Really Works offers a much-needed reality check--because before we can tackle problems effectively, we must understand the facts. In this ambitious and thought-provoking book we see, for example, that globalization isn't inevitable--the foolishness of allowing 70 per cent of the world's rubber gloves to be made in just one factory became glaringly obvious in 2020--and that our societies have been steadily increasing their dependence on fossil fuels, such that any promises of decarbonization by 2050 are a fairy tale. For example, each greenhouse-grown supermarket-bought tomato has the equivalent of five tablespoons of diesel embedded in its production, and we have no way of producing steel, cement or plastics at required scales without huge carbon emissions. Ultimately, Smil answers the most profound question of our age: are we irrevocably doomed or is a brighter utopia ahead? Compelling, data-rich and revisionist, this wonderfully broad, interdisciplinary guide finds faults with both extremes. Looking at the world through this quantitative lens reveals hidden truths that change the way we see our past, present and uncertain future.
Pixie
ListenBook's audio filters and controls have revolutionized the way I enjoy my audio content. The app is super intuitive. I was up and running in minutes.
K-9
I can't believe how much time I've gained by listening while cooking and doing chores. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats makes it a versatile and essential app for audiobook enthusiasts.
Suicide Jockey
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. I'm in awe of how this app has brought new dimensions to my reading experience. ListenBook has given me the gift of time β turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. This audiobook app is an absolute lifesaver! It brings my favorite stories to life with unparalleled convenience. This app's ease of use has made my long drives educational and enjoyable.
ForumFusion
I love how this app makes even the most mundane tasks exciting with audio stories. Effortless and enriching β that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its functionality, from seamless downloads to binaural audio processing, has truly raised the bar. π±π
SmartieQuest
The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
FireBrang
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment. ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app!
Bitmap
The Looping playback and Shuffle features on ListenBook help me customize my listening sessions to my liking. The ListenBook app is a must-have for anyone who loves to learn and be entertained through audiobooks. Audiobooks on this app have made my daily walks a time of reflection and inspiration. I'm amazed at how this app has turned my errands into exciting reading sessions.
Pepper Legs
I can't believe how much time I've gained by listening while cooking and doing chores. The controls on ListenBook are intuitive and user-friendly, making it a joy to navigate through my audiobooks. I'm hooked on this app's ability to transform my ordinary moments into exciting opportunities for learning. ListenBook has elevated my learning experience. I'm retaining more information than ever. What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent.
HOV
I can't believe how much time I've saved thanks to this efficient app! With ListenBook, I can effortlessly manage and organize my audiobook library. ποΈπ§ Escaping to paradise with a beach read β this app is my vacation in audio form! ποΈπ π Turning my phone into a portal of stories β this app's ease of use is remarkable! π±π« ListenBook has rekindled my love for audiobooks. The app's interface is beautiful and user-friendly.
Bootleg Taximan
Audiobooks have made my long drives enjoyable, and this app is my co-pilot. Chapters, configurable auto-rewind, and bookmarks on ListenBook keep me in control of my content. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique and fun feature. I can customize the narration to my liking. The seamless integration with CarPlay adds convenience and entertainment during my daily commutes.
Muzish
Finally, an app that values usability β navigating and listening is a breeze! Binaural audio processing really helps reduce listening fatigue. Great feature!
Delicious Wing
Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys β thank you, app! ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. This app is a game-changer for audiobook lovers! The interface is clean and easy to use. The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Palomino
I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. π§ This app has changed my reading game! Now I can 'read' while I work β genius! ππΌ π§ββοΈβ Unwinding with a cup of tea and a captivating audiobook β relaxation meets intellectual stimulation. π΅π Audiobooks made convenient β this app's functionality is a true gift. ListenBookβs bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Purity Catnip
This app's compatibility with different devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks anywhere, anytime. π‘ Embracing audiobooks while tidying up the house β it's like having a helper! π π
Daffy Neo
The customer support team is responsive and always ready to assist. Mastering audiobook navigation β this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my recordings sound clearer than ever.
Twisty Dew
ListenBook's user-friendly audio filters and controls have made my audiobook sessions more interactive and engaging. This app is a gift for book lovers who struggle to find reading time. Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is a true marvel. 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! Iβve been using ListenBook for months, and itβs been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesnβt drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
CloudFrenzy
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and precise controls make it a joy to use every day. This app is a game-changer for busy individuals who miss reading. ListenBook is the best audiobook player Iβve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
Amphibi-Dangerous
ListenBook has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again β it's a must-have app. π Who needs a dull commute when you can embark on literary journeys with this app? ππ ListenBook's statistics feature is eye-opening. I had no idea how much time I spent immersed in audiobooks until I started using it. ListenBook's player features are incredibly helpful. Chapters and bookmarks make navigation easy.
Flame OUT
Being able to adjust playback speed suits everyone's preferences β a thoughtful feature. ListenBook's dedication to excellence shines through in its performance and features. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful feature. Sharing is caring!
Cross Thread
The family subscription option is a money-saver β everyone gets to enjoy their favorite books. ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. This app is a game-changer for busy individuals who miss reading. Adjusting the tone of the voice is so innovative. It's like personalizing the narration.
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