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.
Scuffs
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is commendable. Auto-rewind is a very handy feature. Excellent app.
Mule Skinner
Sharing audiobooks with friends is a blast. AirDrop makes it seamless. Tone adjustment adds a new layer of personalization to my audiobook experience. It's like having the narrator tailor the voice to my preferences. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like having a personal reading guide. Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch.
Cabbie
ListenBook has brought stories back into my life, making every moment a new adventure. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is top-notch. Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's functionality is a triumph. ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. Binaural audio processing really helps reduce listening fatigue. Great feature!
Firefly
Listening to audiobooks on this app has become my favorite way to relax. I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality – it's evident in every feature. I can't believe how convenient this app has made my reading experience. User-friendly brilliance! This app's functionality enhances my audiobook experience. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling.
Iron Butterfly
ListenBook's player features, including chapters and bookmarks, are invaluable for a seamless experience. I love the compatibility with iOS 16. The app runs smoothly and flawlessly. A reasonable choice for casual listening. The audiobook was well-produced, but the pacing felt uneven in places. I didn’t dislike it, but I also didn’t feel strongly about it one way or another.
Cardinal Rebel
ListenBook has turned my daily routines into audiobook-driven journeys of imagination. 🎧 Elevating my reading experience – this app's intuitive controls and organization features make audiobook enjoyment effortless. 📱📖 I love how I can adjust the skip intervals. It’s perfect for my listening style.
Cardinal Rebel
ListenBook's audio filters have transformed the way I experience audio content – it's a real game-changer. Automatic metadata retrieval is a neat touch. My library is well-organized. Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook! Binaural audio processing reduces listening fatigue. Fantastic feature! The import process is seamless. I had no trouble adding my audiobooks.
Swampmasher
The features on this app, from bookmarks to playback speed, cater to all preferences. 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 wouldn’t call it unforgettable. This audiobook exceeded all my expectations! The narrator's ability to convey emotion through voice alone was remarkable. I laughed, I gasped, I might have even teared up at points - all because of the incredible vocal performance. The story came alive in a way reading alone couldn't achieve. Not the best audiobook I've heard but far from the worst. The production quality was good and there were no major issues with the narration.
Electric Saturn
This app's convenience has made reading a priority in my busy schedule. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick access to chapters enhance my overall listening experience. This audiobook kept me company during a long road trip and made the miles disappear! The narrator's engaging performance and the crisp production quality made for an immersive experience. I appreciated how well they balanced drama with clarity - never sacrificing understanding for effect.
Martini Flower
The app's features, like the sleep timer, make it clear that it's designed with readers in mind. I can't get enough of this app's convenience – it has turned my audiobook journey into a delightful habit. With ListenBook Pro, long audiobooks are no problem. I love it! The voice boost feature is amazing. It makes every word crystal clear. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. 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!
Iron Butterfly
ListenBook has added a new dimension to my audiobook listening experience – it's not just about the content, but the convenience too. ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful – I'm hooked! 🎧 An audiobook treasure trove in the palm of my hand – this app is pure convenience! 📚🌟
Woodland Beauty
User-friendly brilliance! This app's functionality enhances my audiobook experience. Adjusting the tone of the voice is a novel feature that allows for a personalized listening experience.
Foot-long Fry
The ability to switch between devices seamlessly is a game-changer for busy readers. I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. Audiobook heaven! This app has revolutionized the way I enjoy stories. Its sleek design and seamless functionality make it a must-have for book lovers. 📚🎧 ListenBook makes my commute enjoyable. The audio filters really enhance the listening experience.
MysticMingle
The ability to listen to books while multitasking is a game-changer for me. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a fantastic addition that enhances my audio experience. I can't imagine my audio routine without ListenBook's seamless and user-friendly design. With features like auto-rewind, I never lose my place when I pause listening.
Goatee Shield
Automated artwork and metadata extraction keeps my audiobook library visually appealing. ListenBook has become my ultimate audiobook companion. It enhances every listening session. ListenBook has become my go-to audiobook app. It's dependable, user-friendly, and enhances every listening session. Downloading audio from network devices is a brilliant feature. It's incredibly convenient.
Abiss
ListenBook's looping playback, shuffle feature, and configurable controls make learning a breeze. Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's functionality is truly commendable. Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features. I love the auto-rewind feature. ListenBook always picks up right where I left off.
Ladybird
ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. Now I can enjoy my favorite lectures and speeches with ease! Audiobooks have made waiting in lines and queues so much more bearable. This app's convenience has made me fall in love with audiobooks all over again. Streamlining my audiobook journey – this app's design is top-notch. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study sessions. I can focus on challenging content.
Gumby Train
Thanks to ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks without the need for constant synchronization. Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes. ListenBook has revolutionized the way I consume content. It's like having a personal tutor in my ear.
Coma Stalk
This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. Easy chapter navigation and beautiful design make this app stand out. The app is so reliable. I’ve never had any issues with it. This audiobook exceeded all my expectations! The narrator's ability to convey emotion through voice alone was remarkable. I laughed, I gasped, I might have even teared up at points - all because of the incredible vocal performance. The story came alive in a way reading alone couldn't achieve.
Ginger Chaos
ListenBook's customizable features, from playback speed to audio filters, cater to every audiobook lover's preferences. ListenBook's auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that ensures I never miss a single word.
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