Book description
A major reimagining of how evolutionary forces work, revealing how mating preferences--what Darwin termed "the taste for the beautiful"--create the extraordinary range of ornament in the animal world. "A delicious read, both seductive and mutinous.... Minutely detailed, exquisitely observant, deeply informed, and often tenderly sensual."--New York Times Book Review In the great halls of science, dogma holds that Darwin's theory of natural selection explains every branch on the tree of life: which species thrive, which wither away to extinction, and what features each evolves. But can adaptation by natural selection really account for everything we see in nature? Yale University ornithologist Richard Prum--reviving Darwin's own views--thinks not. Deep in tropical jungles around the world are birds with a dizzying array of appearances and mating displays: Club-winged Manakins who sing with their wings, Great Argus Pheasants who dazzle prospective mates with a four-foot-wide cone of feathers covered in golden 3D spheres, Red-capped Manakins who moonwalk. In thirty years of fieldwork, Prum has seen numerous display traits that seem disconnected from, if not outright contrary to, selection for individual survival. To explain this, he dusts off Darwin's long-neglected theory of sexual selection in which the act of choosing a mate for purely aesthetic reasons--for the mere pleasure of it--is an independent engine of evolutionary change. Mate choice can drive ornamental traits from the constraints of adaptive evolution, allowing them to grow ever more elaborate. It also sets the stakes for sexual conflict, in which the sexual autonomy of the female evolves in response to male sexual control. Most crucially, this framework provides important insights into the evolution of human sexuality, particularly the ways in which female preferences have changed male bodies, and even maleness itself, through evolutionary time. The Evolution of Beauty presents a unique scientific vision for how nature's splendor contributes to a more complete understanding of evolution and of ourselves.
Runway Darling
The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. I'm hooked on this app's ease of use β it's a reader's dream come true.
Cabbie
ListenBook Pro offers amazing value with unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction features. Not bad, but not amazing either. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldnβt necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre. This audiobook was neither good nor bad - simply average. The narrator's delivery was professional but uninspired, and the recording quality was clean though not exceptional. It provided satisfactory entertainment without standing out from similar titles.
AxelRoad
I'm exploring new genres and authors I wouldn't have considered otherwise. No more hassle with converting files β ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. π©βπ³ Cooking up a storm while enjoying thrilling stories β this app adds flavor to my meals! π³π§ ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature is a time-saving convenience that I greatly appreciate. The auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that enhances my listening journey. I appreciate it!
NexusNomad
Being able to customize the listening duration is perfect for quick breaks. β° Waking up to audiobooks β mornings have never been this magical and inspiring! βοΈπ§ ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use.
Diamond Gamer
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. I'm hooked on this app's ability to make every moment a reading moment. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature elevates my listening experience, allowing me to focus on the content.
Shamrock
Listening to audiobooks has become my daily ritual for relaxation and escape. I'm able to catch up on my reading list even during the busiest days. Hands down, the best audiobook collection I've ever come across. It has everything I want to listen to. Great for listening to a variety of content. Highly recommend! ListenBook is the best audiobook player Iβve 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!
HolyCombo
With this app, I can devour books like never before β it's incredibly efficient. Effortless audiobook management β this app's usability is a triumph. ListenBook has changed my audiobook game forever. No more format woes! Automated metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is so organized now. I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs.
Disco Thunder
Listening to audiobooks while cooking has made meal prep much more enjoyable. Thanks to ListenBook, I've rediscovered the joy of exploring my favorite content on multiple devices.
Granola
ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a dream for road trips. It keeps me entertained. Looping playback is a game-changer for my study routine. It helps me retain information effectively.
Marshmallow
The app's stability and reliability make it my go-to choice for audiobooks. ListenBook's smooth playback and easy navigation ensure that my audiobook experience is always top-notch. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer for immersive listening in any environment.
Twinkle
ListenBook has added a new dimension to my audiobook listening experience β it's not just about the content, but the convenience too. This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. I can't imagine my audio routine without ListenBook's seamless and user-friendly design. I'm blown away by the attention to detail in every aspect of this app.
Gothic Gucci
I'm hooked on this app's intuitive features β from chapters to playback controls. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy to spread the joy of captivating stories with friends. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile.
RZR
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition β I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. π Rekindling my love for stories β this app's accessibility has reignited my passion! ππ π Drifting into dreamland with enchanting audiobooks β bedtime has become a gateway to imagination. ππ ListenBook has elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. It's a treasure trove of knowledge.
Devil Blade
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks wherever I am. The app is perfect for people with busy schedules. I can listen on the go. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
High Kingdom Warrior
With this app, reading is no longer a task β it's a delightful habit. From novels to speeches, this app's versatility in playing various audio formats has turned my daily activities into enriching listening sessions. What a game-changer! ππ ListenBook's audio filters have given me the power to tailor my listening experience to my preferences. The versatility of this app is mind-boggling. It's like a one-stop solution for audiobooks. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fantastic way to introduce them to captivating stories.
Blistered Outlaw
The app's compatibility with various devices ensures I never miss a moment of my book. Being able to customize the listening duration is perfect for quick breaks. ποΈ This app's functionality is a symphony of efficiency β I'm enjoying audiobooks without missing a beat in my day. πΆπ
FlyGuardX
I'm rediscovering my love for literature through this app β it's revitalizing. Book groups help me keep series together and navigate my collection more efficiently. A great feature!
Taffy Duchess
ListenBook has changed the way I listen to audiobooks. The app is so easy to use. The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books at night.
ZenaCake
With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my downtime more enriching and meaningful. π Drifting into dreamland with enchanting audiobooks β bedtime has become a gateway to imagination. ππ
21st Street
ListenBook Pro is worth every penny. Unlimited audiobook length? Count me in! 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!
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