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.
Trash Master
ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable. This app's compatibility with various devices ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I am. πΆββοΈπ Walking my way through exciting narratives β this app makes exercise more fun! ποΈπ§ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear dictaphone recordings.
Manly
ListenBook's extensive statistics feature adds a new level of insight to my audiobook habits. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. ππ The best app for audiobooks. Downloading and organizing files is super easy with ListenBook.
HighBomber
The bookmark feature is a lifesaver β no more losing my place in the story! π± An app that respects my time and delivers on functionality β audiobook listening has never been this effortless. ππ Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. It helps me absorb information more effectively.
NightDream
This app has made me appreciate the art of storytelling even more. Audiobook heaven! This app's functionality is a dream β simple and efficient. Organization made easy! This app's efficient management of my audiobook collection ensures I'm always engrossed in a captivating tale. ππ± Binaural audio processing reduces listening fatigue. Fantastic feature!
Frenzy
Audiobook pleasure without the fuss β this app's functionality is top-notch. 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±
Darling Peacock
I love that I can enjoy audiobooks while cooking elaborate meals in the kitchen. I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. πΆπ My new soundtrack? Audiobooks, of course! This app makes every day musical. π§πΆ π Embracing reading in the busiest of times β this app is my everyday escape! ππββοΈ Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is a revelation. It elevates the audio quality to a new level.
Stallion Patton
I'm grateful for ListenBook's seamless compatibility with a variety of formats β it's a true lifesaver. This app's features, from bookmarking to customizable playback speed, are fantastic. Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient β it's like having a personal narrator. With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries.
Handsome
I've found hidden gems in genres I never thought I'd be interested in. The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. The interface is sleek and intuitive, making my audiobook experience a joy. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Boost
This app's user-friendly design makes navigating through books a breeze. Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks. The app's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch makes it a true companion for all occasions.
Gas Man
I'm so grateful for this app β it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. I'm blown away by how this app has made my commutes productive and my downtime entertaining. Effortless and enriching β that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features have set the bar high for audiobook enjoyment. π±π ListenBook Pro takes things up a notch with unlimited audiobook length. It's a game-changer! Looping playback has revolutionized my language learning journey. I'm making rapid progress.
Mother Hen
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I am. Streamlined audiobook integration β this app's usability is impressive.
Brick Mooch
ListenBook's customizable audio filters allow me to personalize my listening experience β a fantastic feature. ListenBook's compatibility with various formats has made it my go-to app for all audio content. I can't believe how quickly I finish books now, all thanks to this app. Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's ease of use is a game-changer. Unlimited audiobook length with ListenBook Pro is a game-changer.
Wonder Lady
I can't believe how easy it is to discover new titles and genres. Pure delight! The app's features, like the sleep timer, make it clear that it's designed with readers in mind. The ability to adjust the tone of the narrator's voice is a creative touch that adds depth to my listening.
Swerve
π Igniting my imagination while preparing dinner β this app adds flavor to every meal! π²π π± It's like having a personal audiobook library at my fingertips! This app's functionality is a dream come true for book lovers. ππ₯ CarPlay compatibility is a fantastic addition. It enhances my driving experience with seamless audiobook integration. No more interruptions β the auto-rewind feature is a genius solution for seamless listening. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Jelly Camber
πΆββοΈπ§ Walking and listening has never been this smooth β this app's user-friendly interface makes it a breeze to enjoy my favorite stories. ποΈπ I've recommended this app to all my fellow audiobook enthusiasts. It's a game-changer! ListenBook's player features are incredibly helpful. Chapters and bookmarks make navigation easy.
Zero Corn
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made my life so much easier. With this app, reading has become an integral part of my daily routine. πΌ Balancing responsibilities with relaxation β audiobooks make even mundane tasks feel like an escape. π»π
Winded On Friday
Binaural audio processing on ListenBook is a thoughtful addition that keeps my ears comfortable during extended listening sessions. This app has made my road trips and flights infinitely more enjoyable. No more fussing with synchronization β this app just gets it done!
Roller Girl
I'm impressed by how much more I'm learning through audiobooks compared to traditional reading. ListenBook has made me fall in love with my audio content all over again β it's a must-have. Audiobook multitasking made simple β this app's functionality is a true delight.
Electric Player
This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks hassle-free. I've recommended this app to all my fellow audiobook enthusiasts. It's a game-changer! The app's versatility in audio downloading is unmatched. It's a comprehensive solution for my audiobook needs. Sharing books with friends via AirDrop is so convenient. Thanks, ListenBook!
Mindless Bobcat
Audiobooks have never been this accessible β this app is a true innovation. Kudos to the developers for crafting an app that understands readers' needs. The smooth playback and sleek design are pure perfection. ππ ListenBook's customizable audio filters are a game-changer for tailoring my audiobook playback. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app.
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