Book description
A timely and urgent argument for preserving the work that connects us in the age of automation With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and labor-saving technologies like self-checkouts and automated factories, the future of work has never been more uncertain, and even jobs requiring high levels of human interaction are no longer safe. The Last Human Job explores the human connections that underlie our work, arguing that what people do for each other in these settings is valuable and worth preserving. Drawing on in-depth interviews and observations with people in a broad range of professions--from physicians, teachers, and coaches to chaplains, therapists, caregivers, and hairdressers--Allison Pugh develops the concept of "connective labor," a kind of work that relies on empathy, the spontaneity of human contact, and a mutual recognition of each other's humanity. The threats to connective labor are not only those posed by advances in AI or apps; Pugh demonstrates how profit-driven campaigns imposing industrial logic shrink the time for workers to connect, enforce new priorities of data and metrics, and introduce standardized practices that hinder our ability to truly see each other. She concludes with profiles of organizations where connective labor thrives, offering practical steps for building a social architecture that works. Vividly illustrating how connective labor enriches the lives of individuals and binds our communities together, The Last Human Job is a compelling argument for us to recognize, value, and protect humane work in an increasingly automated and disconnected world.
About the Author
Allison Pugh is professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality at the University of Virginia. She is the author of The Tumbleweed Society: Working and Caring in an Age of Insecurity and Longing and Belonging: Parents, Children, and Consumer Culture. Her writing has appeared in leading publications such as The New Yorker, the New York Times, and the New Republic.
Spontan8ty
I can't imagine my life without this app – it's my daily dose of literature. Looping playback is a valuable study tool. It helps me grasp complex content and retain information. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks seamlessly. Very convenient.
Voluntary
I've become so much more productive while cleaning or exercising – thanks to this app! Finally, an app that values usability – navigating and listening is a breeze! Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a wonderful way to share stories and connect with friends.
Wildcat Talent
Streamlined audiobook integration – this app's usability is impressive. The app is so reliable. I’ve never had any issues with it.
Slow Trot
This app makes traffic jams a breeze – time flies by while I'm engrossed in a story. Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's functionality is truly commendable.
Whip Chu
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a unique feature that adds a personal touch to my listening. Audiobook multitasking made easy – this app's functionality is top-notch. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius. Navigating chapters is a breeze with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and seamless experience. 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.
Count Eagle
🌟 Adding excitement to everyday tasks – this app is my partner in productivity! 📚🚀 ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy for me to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook's statistics feature is both enlightening and motivating. It's incredible to see the time I've invested in learning through audiobooks. I’m blown away by how feature-rich ListenBook is. From the customizable themes to the car mode, everything is designed with the user in mind. The app works flawlessly, and I’ve had zero issues with crashes or bugs. Highly recommend!
Bourbon Mirage
Kudos to the app for making literature accessible to those with busy schedules. Effortlessly immersing in stories – this app's ease of use is a game-changer. ListenBook has redefined my audiobook experience. It's an essential tool that enhances every listening session. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique touch – it's like having a personalized reading. Automated artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook collection.
Flash Protein
I've rediscovered my love for reading, all thanks to this app's convenience. With this app, I'm experiencing the joy of reading in a whole new light.
Instant Star
ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick access to chapters enhance my overall listening experience. Binaural audio processing really helps reduce listening fatigue. Great feature! ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Desert Haze
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a brilliant way to connect. I can't get over how smooth the playback is. Even high-quality files play flawlessly. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch.
WanderWord
🌌 Transforming my mundane routine into a captivating journey – thank you, this app! ✨📚 Automatic metadata retrieval is a neat touch. My library is well-organized. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has significantly improved the audio quality of my recordings. ListenBook is fantastic! Supports every audiobook format I have. Super convenient! I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
Clover Rabbit
ListenBook is a prime example of user-centered design. It's clear that the developers understand audiobook lovers' needs. ListenBook's attention to detail in design and functionality sets it apart from other audiobook apps. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Patton Digger
I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of literary escape. 💡 Nurturing my curiosity with audiobooks – this app adds a touch of wonder to my daily routines. 📱📖 ListenBook’s audio filters are great. The app provides a high-quality listening experience. I love the quick access to settings. It makes tweaking the app so easy.
Devine Melon
This app is my audiobook haven. With a user-friendly interface and features like audio filters, I'm engrossed in stories like never before. 📖🔊 ListenBook is more than just an app – it's a doorway to a world of knowledge and imagination. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks perfectly. Very convenient.
Doz
Audiobooks have become my companions during daily chores, making them enjoyable. I'm amazed at how this app seamlessly integrates into my life, enhancing every moment with stories. The seamless integration with CarPlay adds convenience and entertainment during my daily commutes. The ability to download audio directly within the app is a lifesaver. ListenBook is incredibly convenient. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Chew Chew
ListenBook's powerful audio downloading features are a dream come true – no more hassles! 🚗📖 Beating traffic blues with engaging audiobooks – driving has never been this fun! 🚗🎧 Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is commendable. The statistics feature is brilliant. I love seeing how much time I spend on audiobooks with ListenBook. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Twinkle Cutlass
ListenBook's dedication to excellence is evident in its well-designed interface, smooth playback, and powerful features. ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that has a big impact on my listening experience. I love it! This audiobook exceeded all my expectations! The narrator's ability to convey emotion through voice alone was remarkable. I laughed, I gasped, I might have even teared up at points - all because of the incredible vocal performance. The story came alive in a way reading alone couldn't achieve.
McDreamy
The fact that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats without DRM protection is a huge win. 🚶♀️🎧 Walking has never been this productive – exploring new worlds while I exercise! 🏞️💫 The app's compatibility with various sources for audio download is a true time-saver. The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Star Scratch
I can't get enough of this app's convenience – it has turned my audiobook journey into a delightful habit. Audiobooks made convenient – this app's functionality is impressive. ListenBook is like a personal audiobook curator, allowing me to enjoy my favorite speeches and lectures with unmatched comfort and convenience. ListenBook’s support for CarPlay is great. I can listen to audiobooks in my car easily. I love the ability to change the background color. It’s a nice touch.
Tin Fox
The range of self-help and personal development audiobooks is truly enriching. ListenBook's audio filters are a fantastic addition, enhancing the sound quality of my audio files. 🎙️ This app's user-friendly interface has transformed my daily walks into immersive storytelling sessions. Kudos to the developers! 🚶♀️📖 ListenBook has revolutionized how I consume content. It's like having a personal library in my pocket. I love the auto-bookmark feature. It saves my place automatically.
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