Book description
From a New York Times bestselling author comes the gripping, untold history of science's darkest secrets, "a fascinating book [that] deserves a wide audience" (Publishers Weekly, starred review). Science is a force for good in the world--at least usually. But sometimes, when obsession gets the better of scientists, they twist a noble pursuit into something sinister. Under this spell, knowledge isn't everything, it's the only thing--no matter the cost. Bestselling author Sam Kean tells the true story of what happens when unfettered ambition pushes otherwise rational men and women to cross the line in the name of science, trampling ethical boundaries and often committing crimes in the process. The Icepick Surgeon masterfully guides the reader across two thousand years of history, beginning with Cleopatra's dark deeds in ancient Egypt. The book reveals the origins of much of modern science in the transatlantic slave trade of the 1700s, as well as Thomas Edison's mercenary support of the electric chair and the warped logic of the spies who infiltrated the Manhattan Project. But the sins of science aren't all safely buried in the past. Many of them, Kean reminds us, still affect us today. We can draw direct lines from the medical abuses of Tuskegee and Nazi Germany to current vaccine hesitancy, and connect icepick lobotomies from the 1950s to the contemporary failings of mental-health care. Kean even takes us into the future, when advanced computers and genetic engineering could unleash whole new ways to do one another wrong. Unflinching, and exhilarating to the last page, The Icepick Surgeon fuses the drama of scientific discovery with the illicit thrill of a true-crime tale. With his trademark wit and precision, Kean shows that, while science has done more good than harm in the world, rogue scientists do exist, and when we sacrifice morals for progress, we often end up with neither.
Pluto
This app has made me appreciate the art of storytelling even more. Say hello to audiobook nirvana! This app's user-friendly design and comprehensive features have made my reading routine smoother than ever. ππ 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.
Lskeee
An audiobook lover's dream come true. So many options, I'm in heaven! The narrator's voices are so soothing β a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. The Looping playback and Shuffle features on ListenBook help me customize my listening sessions to my liking. π‘ This app truly understands the needs of audiobook enthusiasts β it delivers an effortless and enjoyable listening experience. ππ§ ListenBookβs support for Apple Watch is a great touch. I can control my audiobooks on the go.
Aqua Diva
π§ββοΈβ Savoring moments of tranquility with a cup of tea and captivating tales! π΅π ππ Reigniting my passion for books β this app is my newfound reading obsession! π₯π§ CUE playlist support is a fantastic organizational feature. It keeps my audiobooks neatly arranged. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app.
Guillotine
ListenBook's detailed statistics feature helps me keep track of my listening habits. It's amazing to see how much I've learned from all those audiobooks! Binaural audio processing really works. Less fatigue during long listening sessions. The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
Impulsive Flower
Audiobooks have made my long commutes enjoyable, and I'm always eager to see what's next. Thanks to this app, I can enjoy the world of literature without missing a beat in my fast-paced life. The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a huge plus. Bookmarks have become my study companion. I can easily revisit important passages in my audiobooks. Downloading books over WiFi is quick and hassle-free. Very convenient.
Tart Voodoo
I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience. Automatic artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook library.
Domino
ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch, combined with its chapters, controls, and filters, make it the ultimate audiobook app! The intuitive interface and seamless navigation make this app a joy to use. This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that I never miss out on a great audiobook. π± Carrying my favorite stories with me wherever I go β this app is like a portable library in my pocket. ππ Navigating chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and seamless experience.
Succubus In Training
The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits β so cool! This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. Looping playback is my secret weapon for language learning. It's revolutionized my approach.
Alberta
The audio filters on ListenBook enhance the sound quality, making every listening session a treat for my ears. ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience β it's like having a personal audio library. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fun way to experiment with the audiobook experience. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to create curated listening experiences for different moods and settings. Flawless support for various audio formats. Highly satisfied.
HedgeH0g2
I never knew my daily walks could be so fulfilling β all thanks to this app. Automatic artwork and metadata retrieval is a time-saver. My library looks fantastic.
Ella of Light
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. Audiobook adventures simplified β this app's functionality is a revelation. ListenBook has made my daily commutes enjoyable. No more boredom! ListenBook has revolutionized how I consume content. It's like having a personal library in my pocket. The detailed listening stats are fantastic. Helps me keep track of my progress.
HOV
πββοΈπ Experiencing stories while staying active β this app's functionality enhances my walks and runs like never before. π§ποΈ 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!
Pogue
I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's seamless audio player. I'm blown away by ListenBook's ability to play diverse formats flawlessly β it's a game-changer. This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go β it's like carrying a library in my pocket.
Knuckles
Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my audiobook library. Perfect for studying with its playback controls and audio filters. Excellent app! I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itβs a fun feature.
Bugger
π Transforming long drives into memorable journeys through the magic of audiobooks! ππ π₯ Spicing up my routine with this app β it's like having a personal storyteller on hand at all times! β¨π ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand, transforming noisy environments into serene listening spaces. Adjustable playback speed and volume control are top-notch. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itβs a fun feature.
Flint
No more worries about compatibility β ListenBook handles numerous formats flawlessly. This app has transformed my daily routine into moments of literary delight.
SpellTansy
The fact that ListenBook doesn't just play, but enhances audio quality, is truly remarkable. Audiobooks have become a cherished part of my daily life, all thanks to this app. Excellent support for various audio formats. Very satisfied. Finally, an audiobook player that supports all formats! No more converting files. The app is perfect for multitasking. I can listen while doing other things.
Ship Whip
The sound quality is excellent. It feels like Iβm in the story. I've found my new favorite narrator! Their voice was perfectly suited to this material, with just the right blend of authority and approachability. The production quality was broadcast-level - no distracting breaths, clicks, or inconsistent volume. Already looking for more of their work.
Y0dler
ποΈ This app's functionality is a symphony of efficiency β I'm enjoying audiobooks without missing a beat in my day. πΆπ The app's compatibility with Apple Watch elevates my workouts, making them more engaging and productive. ListenBookβs support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily.
Friday Ferrari
ListenBook's innovative features, from audio filters to statistics, make it a standout app. I love how this app's chapters, bookmarks, and controls give me full control over my audiobook journey. π₯ Spicing up my routine with this app β it's like having a personal storyteller on hand at all times! β¨π Audiobook pleasure simplified β this app's design is a standout. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
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