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.
Fennel Dove
I'm enjoying books I never thought I'd be interested in – all thanks to this app. No more worries about compatibility – ListenBook handles numerous formats flawlessly.
Flashpoint
This app's simplicity has made me fall in love with books all over again. I'm amazed at how this app has seamlessly integrated reading into my daily rhythm. Downloading audiobooks over WiFi is super easy. Saves time.
Snow Hound
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. No need to convert files anymore – ListenBook's seamless playback of various formats is a game-changer for audiobook enthusiasts like me! ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs. Makes listening to audiobooks so easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! Fairly enjoyable, but forgettable. I didn’t have any major complaints, but I also don’t see myself revisiting this one. It was a decent way to spend a few hours, though.
Treasure Devil
ListenBook's customizable audio filters allow me to personalize my listening experience – a fantastic feature. 📚 Embracing reading in the digital age – this app makes accessing books a seamless and enjoyable experience. 📱🎉 The adjustable playback speed feature is a true innovation. It adds a personalized touch to my listening.
Frenzy
Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique feature. I'm loving it! With ListenBook Pro, long audiobooks are no problem. I love it! Sharing audiobooks via AirDrop is incredibly convenient. Great feature! The app is perfect for multitasking. I can listen while doing other things.
Wildcat Talent
ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments. The listening stats feature is awesome. I can track my audiobook habits effortlessly. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length feature is fantastic.
Sienna Princess
💼 Making work hours enjoyable – audiobooks turn my tasks into learning opportunities and moments of joy. 💻📖 📚 Accessing my favorite authors and genres is a breeze with this app's user-friendly functionality. 📱🎧 Audiobook pleasure simplified – this app's design is a true winner. The auto-rewind feature after interruptions is a small thing that makes a big difference. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Maple Destroyer
This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go – it's like carrying a library in my pocket. 🌟 Say goodbye to boredom during long drives – this app makes road trips fly by! 🚗🎉 Seamless audiobook integration – this app's design is a true delight.
Poppin Loot
Listening to audiobooks has become my ultimate way to unwind after a long day. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a feature I can't live without.
Pink Nightmare
With ListenBook, I can enjoy a wide range of audiobook formats without any hassle, making my listening experience seamless. Audiobooks on this app have expanded my horizons and introduced me to new ideas. ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have taken my audiobook journey to new heights. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a boon for those who enjoy deep dives into lengthy narratives.
RZR
I'm grateful for this app, as it allows me to keep up with my reading even while multitasking. 🎉 Rekindling my love for reading – this app makes each day a new adventure! 📖🚀 Managing my audiobook collection is a pleasure thanks to this app's usability. This app has transformed my daily commute into a captivating journey of knowledge and entertainment.
Fennel Dove
ListenBook has given me a renewed appreciation for audio content – it's my new favorite app. I’m 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!
Tacklebox
This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences – time flies by! 🏝️ Soaking up the sun with an audiobook by my side – beach days just got better! 🏖️📖 🚗📚 Turn traffic into a literary escape – this app's functionality keeps me engaged while I'm on the move. 🚗🎧 ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fun way to experiment with the audiobook experience. Book groups keep my related titles together for a cohesive listening experience. A thoughtful feature!
ByteBard
I've started reading more books than ever before, all thanks to this app. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration is a brilliant touch.
Moon Orchid
The range of supported formats is astounding. No more compatibility issues! High-quality playback even with complex formats like FLAC. Impressive!
Switch
As a language learner, this app has been invaluable in improving my listening skills. ListenBook's easy sharing options make it a breeze to introduce friends to my favorite audiobooks. Sharing is caring! The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. The equalizer is a great addition. It really enhances the audio quality.
Sky Herald
📱 Turning my phone into a portal of endless stories – this app is pure magic! 📚✨ Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it. This audiobook spoiled me for others! The narrator's professional delivery set a high bar - perfect diction, ideal pacing, and emotional authenticity. The recording quality was equally impressive with no distracting artifacts. I finished it far too quickly because I couldn't stop listening. A perfectly acceptable audiobook that fulfilled its purpose. The narration was competent if not particularly memorable, and the production quality was standard for the genre. It served as decent background entertainment during mundane tasks.
Shwatson
ListenBook's audio filters have transformed the way I experience audio content – it's a real game-changer. I'm blown away by the quality of narration on this app – it's like being in the story. ListenBook has reignited my love for storytelling and learning, one audio file at a time. This app has transformed my daily walks into insightful journeys of knowledge – talk about efficiency! User-centric audiobook joy – this app's ease of use is a true marvel.
ForumFlare
This app is a blessing for those with busy schedules – it's like time travel through stories. Shuffle playback is a fun feature. It keeps me engaged with my audiobooks. Makes audiobook listening super easy and enjoyable. Thank you! Listening to audiobooks on my iPad has never been easier. Highly recommend ListenBook!
FrankenGrin
Bravo to the creators of this app – they've truly captured the essence of convenient audiobook enjoyment. The smooth playback and thoughtful design are a win. 📚👏 Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch.
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