Book description
From the New York Times-bestselling author of Where Good Ideas Come From and Unexpected Life, a new look at the power and legacy of great ideas.In this illustrated history, Steven Johnson explores the history of innovation over centuries, tracing facets of modern life (refrigeration, clocks, and eyeglass lenses, to name a few) from their creation by hobbyists, amateurs, and entrepreneurs to their unintended historical consequences. Filled with surprising stories of accidental genius and brilliant mistakes--from the French publisher who invented the phonograph before Edison but forgot to include playback, to the Hollywood movie star who helped invent the technology behind Wi-Fi and Bluetooth--How We Got to Now investigates the secret history behind the everyday objects of contemporary life. In his trademark style, Johnson examines unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated fields: how the invention of air-conditioning enabled the largest migration of human beings in the history of the species--to cities such as Dubai or Phoenix, which would otherwise be virtually uninhabitable; how pendulum clocks helped trigger the industrial revolution; and how clean water made it possible to manufacture computer chips. Accompanied by a major six-part television series on PBS, How We Got to Now is the story of collaborative networks building the modern world, written in the provocative, informative, and engaging style that has earned Johnson fans around the globe.
QuestWeaver
π Igniting my imagination while preparing dinner β this app adds flavor to every meal! π²π π Adding an extra layer of delight to cooking β this app turns meal prep into a culinary adventure with its audiobooks! π²π The app is constantly updated with new features. The developers really care. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itβs a fun feature.
BuzzBait
Audiobooks have made waiting in lines and queues so much more bearable. With this app, my audiobook library is organized and accessible, making my reading journey effortless. Download via WiFi, WebDAV, iTunes β options galore to suit everyone's preferences. Looping playback of a single track helps me master difficult concepts. So helpful!
Morbid Sugar
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. I'm amazed by the variety of genres available β there's something for everyone. π Bedtime stories for adults? Yes, please! This app is a dream come true. ππ ποΈ Basking in the sun with an audiobook β relaxation meets storytelling paradise! βοΈπ I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itβs a fun feature.
Deano
Simplifying my reading routine β this app's ease of use is remarkable. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is fascinating. I can alter the reader's voice to match my moodβwhat a creative addition! Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldnβt call it unforgettable.
Bridge Whip
With ListenBook, I can enjoy my own audio content with unparalleled ease and comfort. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my audiobook experience, ensuring I catch every detail. Configurable auto-rewind is genius. No more confusion when I pause and resume. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction keep my audiobook library organized and visually appealing.
Crossing Guard
I'm addicted to this app's ability to turn mundane moments into opportunities for intellectual growth. This app has made 'reading' more versatile and enjoyable than ever. Audiobook excellence made simple β this app's functionality is a true asset. Sharing audiobooks with friends is so easy with AirDrop. It's a great way to spread happiness.
2nd Hand Joe
This app's efficient downloading process ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks whenever and wherever. π Whether I'm cooking, commuting, or relaxing at home, this app's seamless functionality keeps me engaged in captivating narratives. π§β¨ Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature.
Impulse
With ListenBook, I've unlocked a world of educational and entertaining content right at my fingertips. Audiobook pleasure without the fuss β this app's functionality is top-notch. The app's compatibility with CarPlay enhances my driving experience. Audiobooks on the road have never been better. Listening stats feature keeps me motivated to read more. Love it! The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. Itβs so easy to navigate.
Widow Curio
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's compatibility with a wide array of audio formats makes it my ultimate audiobook companion. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Preach Man
ListenBook has become an essential part of my day, enhancing my commute and allowing me to enjoy audiobooks like never before. I canβt believe how easy it is to manage my audiobook library with ListenBook. Highly recommended!
Goldman
I love that ListenBook Pro allows me to customize the tone of the sound β it adds a personal touch. ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is a game-changer!
Sweet Bacon
I'm hooked on ListenBook's silky-smooth playback, making my audio sessions truly enjoyable. βοΈ Loving the fact that I can learn and listen at the same time β multitasking made easy! π§ π§ The statistics tracking feature is eye-opening. I never realized how much time I spend on audiobooks until now! I love how ListenBook makes it easy to organize my audiobook library. The app supports all formats, and the import process is a breeze. The playback controls are responsive, and the sound quality is excellent. Highly recommend!
RealmRanger
This app has become my loyal companion during travels and relaxation times. Audiobooks have never been this accessible β this app is a true innovation. This app has made my daily walks a time for both exercise and learning. Bookmarking favorite parts of audiobooks is a breeze. It's like having a personalized study guide.
Kitchen
I'm hooked on this app's curated content β it's like having a personal librarian. ListenBook has become my workout companion. It keeps me engaged and entertained during exercise. The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it.
Texas Butterfly
ListenBook has turned my ordinary moments into extraordinary journeys of the mind. ListenBook is my trusted partner for all things audiobooks. It's reliable, intuitive, and user-friendly. Looping playback is a study tool that I can't live without. It helps me master challenging content.
RealmRanger
I'm amazed at how this app's features cater to audiobook enthusiasts' every need. The automatic extraction of artwork and metadata keeps my audiobook library organized and visually appealing. Easy chapter navigation and beautiful design make this app stand out.
Twisty Freesia
Audiobooks made convenient β this app's functionality is a true gift. Book groups keep my related titles together for a cohesive listening experience. A thoughtful feature! The app is so reliable. Iβve never had any issues with it.
Burst Nibbler
I've never been this excited about my daily commute β thank you, audiobooks! I've become an audiobook addict, all thanks to this amazing app. π± Unlocking the world of literature with just a tap β this app is my digital library card! ππ± π Reading has never been this easy β this app fits right into my fast-paced lifestyle. ππ« The statistics tracking feature is a gem. I'm surprised by how much time I spend on audiobooks!
RightN0w2
With ListenBook, I can now listen to my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. I'm addicted to this app's ability to seamlessly blend books into my life. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time. I love the ability to import books from my computer. Itβs so easy.
Whipsaw
I'm able to enjoy books in a whole new way β while cooking, working out, or even gardening. ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. Now I can enjoy my favorite lectures and speeches with ease! ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis.
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