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.
DreamDasher
With this app, I've turned mundane chores into exciting opportunities for intellectual growth. This app's convenience has revolutionized the way I experience books. Kudos to ListenBook for the intuitive design and easy-to-use controls. It's evident that they've put a lot of thought into user experience. Good for background listening. I didnβt get fully immersed, but it was pleasant enough to have on while doing chores. The narratorβs voice was easy to listen to, even if the delivery lacked some energy. This is exactly what I look for in an audiobook! The narrator's pleasant voice and excellent diction made even complex passages easy to follow. I appreciated the subtle but effective use of pauses and emphasis that added depth to the listening experience. Finished it in record time because I couldn't stop listening.
DuckDuck
π₯ Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears β audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. π΅π Automatic artwork and metadata extraction keep my audiobook library organized and visually appealing. This app has completely transformed my daily routine. I can't imagine my commute without it!
Lightweight
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear dictaphone recordings. Quick access to chapters and smooth playback. Fantastic app!
Devil Chick
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment. Audiobook joy made simple β this app's ease of use is a game-changer. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces. Bookmarks have become my study companion. I can easily revisit important passages in my audiobooks.
Ella of Light
Listening to audiobooks has turned mundane tasks into enjoyable experiences. I'm impressed by how this app seamlessly syncs across my devices. This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history featureβitβs so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Phoenix Sparrow
This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine β it's a habit I cherish. With this app, I can read anytime, anywhere β it's a reader's dream come true. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces. The attention to detail is commendable. Artwork and metadata are sorted automatically. The user-friendly interface and precise controls make listening to audiobooks an absolute delight.
Snow Cream
I'm addicted to this app β it's like having a library in my pocket. Navigating my audiobook library is a breeze β thank you, app developers! ListenBook has redefined my workout routine. The controls are so user-friendly. Binaural audio reduces listening fatigue. Such a great feature! I love the ability to change the playback speed. Itβs perfect for my needs.
Hyper
π± My pocket-sized library β this app makes reading accessible anytime, anywhere! ππ± ππ Turn traffic into a literary escape β this app's functionality keeps me engaged while I'm on the move. ππ§ Downloading over WiFi is super efficient. Saves a lot of time. Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend. Adjustable playback speed and volume controls are fantastic features.
Low Menace
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 integration with Apple Watch makes it an indispensable tool for my active lifestyle. The seamless integration with CarPlay adds convenience and entertainment during my daily commutes. The bookmark feature is fantastic. I can easily pick up where I left off. I love the ability to change the font size. It makes reading the titles so easy.
2nd Hand Joe
π§ My daily chores just got an upgrade! Thanks to this app, I can dive into captivating stories while cooking and cleaning. ππ³ The app is so responsive. It never lags or freezes.
Steel Solstice
With ListenBook, I've found a versatile and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. This app has made my road trips and flights infinitely more enjoyable. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Flame OUT
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic β what a win! The audio filters make a noticeable difference. ListenBook provides an excellent listening experience.
RiddleRanger
The app's compatibility with various devices ensures I never miss a moment of my book. The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits β so cool! β° Early mornings have become my favorite time to listen to audiobooks β energizing! π π§
Zod
The narrator's voices are so engaging, it's like having a personal storytelling session. Gone are the days of struggling with formats. Thanks to this app, my audiobook journey is a breeze, and every tale is a tap away. Highly recommended! ππ§ Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of reading.
Baked ZD
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a fantastic way to spread the joy of audiobooks. With this app, reading is no longer a task β it's a delightful habit. Navigating audiobooks with ease β this app's design is user-centric. Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's diverse format support and easy downloads, my reading routine has reached new heights. ππ What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent.
Terror Master
It's impressive how the app caters to both seasoned readers and newcomers. ποΈπ§ Soaking up the sun while indulging in beach reads β this app is my ultimate relaxation companion. ποΈπ Looping playback is a valuable study tool. It helps me grasp complex content and retain information.
360
The ability to switch between devices seamlessly is a game-changer for busy readers. Audiobooks have become my travel companions, and this app is my guide.
Mr. Fabulous
Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature! The app supports background playback, which is a must for me.
Twinkle
ListenBook's comprehensive support for a wide range of audio formats sets it apart from other audiobook apps. I can't imagine my life without this app β it's my constant companion for literary adventures. The ability to play various audio formats without conversion is very convenient. ListenBook is a great app. Absolutely loved the narration! The voice actor brought the characters to life with distinct tones and emotions. The production quality was top-notch, with no background noise or distractions. A truly immersive experience!
Sugar Hiccup
The diverse range of narrators adds a new layer of depth to each story. ποΈ Soaking up the sun with an audiobook by my side β beach days just got better! ποΈπ Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is truly impressive. 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 has rekindled my passion for learning. I'm exploring new topics every day.
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