Book description
The Genius of Trees: How They Mastered the Elements and Shaped the World
Harriet Rix
When you think of trees, you probably picture silent sentinels that simply stand there, absorbing sunlight and turning it into oxygen. Harriet Rix turns that image on its head and invites us to see forests as living, breathing architects-organisms that actively engineer their surroundings in ways most of us never imagined.
From the very first page Rix's voice is engaging yet unpretentious; she lets the trees speak for themselves while weaving a narrative that feels like an adventurous field trip. The book opens with the striking example of oaks in Devon, whose vast root systems and fungal partners create micro-ecosystems that support entire communities of plants and animals. Then we travel to Amedi in Iraq, where certain species change sex as they age-a strategy that maximizes reproductive success-and to laurel rainforests on the Canary Islands, which regulate local water cycles with astonishing precision.
What makes this book truly remarkable is its blend of deep history, cutting-edge biochemistry, and ecological storytelling. Rix shows how some trees deliberately poison small mammals while rewarding large primates that can disperse their seeds far and wide. Others, like certain conifers in California, have the power to split solid rock, turning barren landscapes into fertile grounds capable of sustaining life. These are not just anecdotes; they are evidence of intentional design encoded within the genome of a tree.
The science is presented with clarity. Rix explains how trees manipulate fundamental elements-carbon, nitrogen, water-and even methane, challenging long-held assumptions that forests merely emit greenhouse gases. Instead, she reveals that many species consume methane, acting as natural carbon sinks. This insight reshapes our understanding of the forest's role in climate regulation.
Beyond the facts, Rix's tone is hopeful. She restores trees to their rightful place-not victims of human neglect but ingenious, creative agents shaping ecosystems and even influencing human culture. The book feels like a manifesto for a new ecological perspective: one where we recognize the agency of plants and re-evaluate our relationship with nature.
In sum, The Genius of Trees is an eye-opening journey that will leave you marveling at the quiet power of forests. It is accessible to anyone curious about science or nature, yet it offers enough depth for scholars and environmentalists alike. Rix's masterful storytelling and solid research make this a must-read for anyone who wants to see trees not just as background scenery but as dynamic architects of life on Earth.
Skull Crusher
ListenBook has transformed my mundane activities into enjoyable moments of learning and entertainment. ListenBook has brought stories back into my life, making every moment a new adventure. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a major convenience during road trips. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app! 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!
Succubus In Training
My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. With this app, audiobook listening has become an integral part of my daily routines – it's a game-changer. I'm amazed at how effortlessly this app has made reading a constant in my life. With this app, I'm experiencing the joy of reading in a whole new light. I can't thank this app enough for making my audiobook experience so effortless. From downloading to playback, it's a true companion for book lovers. 📚💫
Fire Queen
I've been able to explore different cultures and perspectives through a diverse range of books. Audiobooks have become a cherished part of my daily life, all thanks to this app. ListenBook has become an essential part of my routine. It's more than an app – it's a companion. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my library look organized and professional.
Cuff Queen
ListenBook's dedication to user convenience is evident in the drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers. The range of supported formats is impressive. No more converting files! No more interruptions – the auto-rewind feature is a genius solution for seamless listening. Makes listening to audiobooks easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook! ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve 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!
QuestWeaver
Audiobooks have never been this immersive – this app transports me to different worlds. 💼 Merging work and pleasure – audiobooks keep me company during house admin tasks! 💻🎧 Perfect for listening to educational materials. Highly efficient and useful.
Twiddle Twix
ListenBook's sleek design and easy chapter access make navigation a breeze. Audiobook excellence made simple – this app's functionality is a true asset. ListenBook's extensive format support makes it the ultimate audiobook app for any audiobook lover. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily routine, becoming an indispensable companion for various activities. Its user-friendly interface, features, and performance make it a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts.
Delicious Wing
I never thought I'd enjoy audiobooks as much as I do now – all thanks to this app. The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. I can't imagine my life without this app – it has made audiobook enjoyment effortless and convenient. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of storytelling with friends.
EchoEnigma
Audiobooks have brought a new level of enjoyment to my daily workout routine. The app's integration with CarPlay enhances my road trips with immersive audiobook journeys.
Saturn Extreme
This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. ListenBook has given me the gift of time – turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a revelation. It eliminates distractions and enhances the clarity of recordings, resulting in a more immersive experience.
Undergrad Split
I appreciate the minimal ads – it's all about uninterrupted enjoyment. Kudos to the developers! This app's convenience has made my audiobook addiction thrive! ListenBook's Pro version is worth every penny. The noise reduction feature makes even noisy environments an ideal place for immersive listening. Tone adjustment is a brilliant addition that lets me personalize the narration to my liking. It adds an extra layer of connection to the audiobooks. ListenBook has changed the way I listen to audiobooks. The app is so easy to use.
Tootsie Killer
This app is my secret weapon for staying entertained during mundane tasks. 📱 Carrying my library in my pocket – this app makes every moment a reading opportunity! 📚👜 🔥 Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears – audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. 🎵📖 ListenBook Pro is worth every penny. Unlimited audiobook length? Count me in!
ManMaker
This app is a gift for book lovers who struggle to find reading time. Audiobooks made delightful – this app's usability is a breath of fresh air. Audiobook magic at my fingertips! This app's comprehensive features, from statistics tracking to enhanced audio quality, enrich my reading. 📚✨ Automated artwork and metadata extraction make my audiobook library look neat and professional.
Sugar Domino
ListenBook has redefined my audiobook journey, making it more enjoyable and convenient than ever before. This app is a lifesaver! I can now enjoy my favorite books on the go. ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent audiobook experience is evident in its smooth and silky playback. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has never been easier or more convenient.
DreamWeaver
ListenBook has become my workout companion. It keeps me engaged and entertained during exercise. The adjustable playback speed is a secret weapon for getting through educational content faster. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that allows for a personalized listening experience. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Excellent app!
BloodEater
Being able to download audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. Audiobook enjoyment without the hassle – this app's design is a win. ListenBook has elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. It's a treasure trove of knowledge. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. It’s a unique feature.
MuseMaster
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has made multitasking with audio content a breeze. With this app, audiobook listening has become a seamless and enjoyable part of my everyday life. CUE playlist support is a brilliant feature that allows me to create customized listening experiences for different moods, activities, and moments of the day.
Necessary Momentum
ListenBook's chapters, controls, and filters have transformed my listening sessions into immersive journeys. With this app, I'm rediscovering the joy of reading in the most convenient way. 🎧 Elevating my reading experience – this app's intuitive controls and organization features make audiobook enjoyment effortless. 📱📖
Mint Ness
The compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch sets ListenBook apart from the rest. ListenBook's dedication to delivering top-notch audio quality is evident in every detail. 🚶♀️🎧 Strolling through captivating narratives while I take my daily walks – pure bliss! 🏞️📚 The app is perfect for people who love to listen to books while commuting.
Feral Cookie
I'm no longer missing out on great stories – this app fits perfectly into my lifestyle. I've never been so entertained while doing household chores – this app is a lifesaver! Efficiency meets audiobooks – this app's functionality is a perfect match. With support for various formats, I can finally listen to my diverse audiobook collection.
Red Hot Kevorkian
ListenBook has made me fall in love with my audio content all over again – it's a must-have. This app's versatility and convenience have transformed my screen time into a productive reading journey.
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