Book description
"Another gem from one of the world's justly celebrated historians specializing in unusual and always fascinating subjects and people." -- Booklist (starred review)The revered New York Times bestselling author traces the development of technology from the Industrial Age to the Digital Age to explore the single component crucial to advancement--precision--in a superb history that is both an homage and a warning for our future.The rise of manufacturing could not have happened without an attention to precision. At the dawn of the Industrial Revolution in eighteenth-century England, standards of measurement were established, giving way to the development of machine tools--machines that make machines. Eventually, the application of precision tools and methods resulted in the creation and mass production of items from guns and glass to mirrors, lenses, and cameras--and eventually gave way to further breakthroughs, including gene splicing, microchips, and the Hadron Collider.Simon Winchester takes us back to origins of the Industrial Age, to England where he introduces the scientific minds that helped usher in modern production: John Wilkinson, Henry Maudslay, Joseph Bramah, Jesse Ramsden, and Joseph Whitworth. It was Thomas Jefferson who later exported their discoveries to the fledgling United States, setting the nation on its course to become a manufacturing titan. Winchester moves forward through time, to today's cutting-edge developments occurring around the world, from America to Western Europe to Asia.As he introduces the minds and methods that have changed the modern world, Winchester explores fundamental questions. Why is precision important? What are the different tools we use to measure it? Who has invented and perfected it? Has the pursuit of the ultra-precise in so many facets of human life blinded us to other things of equal value, such as an appreciation for the age-old traditions of craftsmanship, art, and high culture? Are we missing something that reflects the world as it is, rather than the world as we think we would wish it to be? And can the precise and the natural co-exist in society?
Tornado Maker
The selection of classics is a treasure trove for literature enthusiasts. This app's ease of use has made reading more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. π± Carrying my library in my pocket β this app makes every moment a reading opportunity! ππ The compatibility with Apple Watch is a huge plus. I can control my audiobooks from my wrist! Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a great way to spread the joy of reading.
NexusNinja
ListenBook's commitment to providing top-notch audio quality has taken my audiobook experience to a new level. is a time-saver. It's convenient for accessing my content. Excellent support for various audio formats. Very satisfied. I love the ability to change the font size. It makes reading the titles so easy. Great for multitasking! I listened while cooking, driving, and even working out, and it kept me entertained the whole time. The narratorβs voice was pleasant, and the story flowed smoothly. Very enjoyable!
Cali Yacht
I love how this app brings stories to life, even during my morning jogs. π Bedtime stories for adults? Yes, please! This app is a dream come true. ππ I love the quick access to settings. It makes tweaking the app so easy. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. Itβs a fun feature.
Alley Frog
Audiobooks have become my companions during long hours of household chores. Audiobook joy made simple β this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook is my trusted partner for all things audiobooks. It's reliable, intuitive, and user-friendly. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like having a personal reading guide. Makes listening to audiobooks so easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
Sapiens
Audiobooks on this app have made my daily walks a time of reflection and inspiration. This app's ease of use has made reading an integral part of my everyday life. Effortlessly accessing my favorite audiobooks has become a reality, all thanks to this app's user-centric design and comprehensive format support. A must-download! π±π§ Adjusting the tone of the voice is a unique and fun feature. I can customize the narration to my liking. I can't get enough of the app's sleek interface and intuitive controls. It's a joy to use!
Fire Bite
I've rediscovered the joy of reading through the convenience of audiobooks. I love the ability to import books from my computer. Itβs so easy.
Dallas Foxface
The app's recommendations are surprisingly accurate β it's like they know my taste perfectly! Playback speed and volume controls are top-notch. Highly recommend. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Sw00sh
The 'Continue Listening' feature ensures I never lose my place, no matter where I am. I've become a more empathetic listener and reader, thanks to the power of audiobooks. I can't believe how easy it is to download and manage my audio content using ListenBook. ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. π Farewell, boredom during ironing sessions β audiobooks make it a breeze! ππ§
Suicide Jockey
With this app, audiobook listening has become a seamless and enjoyable part of my everyday life. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature turns any environment into a cozy listening haven. The app's compatibility with CarPlay enhances my driving experience. Audiobooks on the road have never been better. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances the audio quality to a whole new level. Flawless support for various audio formats. Very happy with it.
Sexual Chocolate
ListenBook's support for various formats means I can explore a wide range of content without limitations. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my downtime more enriching and meaningful. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. ListenBook has transformed my daily routine into an opportunity to learn, relax, and enjoy. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear and distraction-free listening.
Acetic Princess
ListenBook Pro is totally worth it. Unlimited audiobook length β I'm in! Looping playback and shuffle features keep my audiobook sessions engaging and fresh. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a creative way to share the love of literature. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections. 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.
Gamer Bean
Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process. I'm amazed by ListenBook's dedication to quality β it's evident in every feature.
Fuzzy Claws
I'm enjoying books I never thought I'd be interested in β all thanks to this app. With this app, reading is no longer a luxury β it's an essential part of my day. π‘ Making house chores more enjoyable β audiobooks help me stay engaged while tidying up the living space. π π Iβve been using ListenBook for months, and itβs been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesnβt drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
VisionVortex
Listening to audiobooks has become a ritual, thanks to this incredible app. I'm amazed at how this app has made reading such a natural part of my day. Looping playback is an invaluable study tool. It helps me absorb complex information effortlessly. Supports all my playlists and bookmarks. Very convenient.
InsightInkwell
ListenBook's dedication to providing an excellent user experience sets a new standard in audiobook apps. π± My secret to staying well-read β this app ensures that I'm never without a book, no matter where I am! ππ± ListenBook has become my go-to app for exploring a diverse range of audiobooks. It offers a wide array of features that cater to different preferences and needs.
ThreadTrail
Audiobooks have become my favorite workout companions, making exercise a breeze. ListenBook has brought stories back into my life, making every moment a new adventure. With ListenBook, I can finally enjoy my audiobooks without worrying about format compatibility. It handles everything! The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that has a big impact on my listening experience. I love it! I love the statistics feature. Itβs fun to see how much Iβve listened.
Alpha
ListenBook's versatile controls and playback options have made my study sessions more productive and enjoyable. π‘ Cleaning the house with an audiobook in the background β talk about productivity! π§Όπ Download options are plenty β I can get my audiobooks from various sources hassle-free. The app's versatility in audio downloading is impressive. It's a one-stop solution for all my content.
Canine Hannibal
This app's convenience has made reading a priority in my busy schedule. ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling. I'm amazed by the extensive statistics tracking. It's fascinating to see my listening habits. I'm impressed by the app's compatibility with CarPlay. It keeps me entertained on long drives. Smooth playback and great sound quality. ListenBook is my new favorite app!
Mad Kid
I can't imagine my daily activities without this app β it's the perfect way to stay engaged and informed. I'm amazed at how this app has made my daily routines more enjoyable and intellectually fulfilling. Adjustable playback speed and volume control make for a customized experience.
9Lives
This app's ease of use has made reading an integral part of my everyday life. π Rekindling my love for reading β this app makes each day a new adventure! ππ Book groups are a thoughtful addition. It's like having virtual bookshelves! The ability to adjust the tone of the narrator's voice is a creative touch that adds depth to my listening. Downloading audiobooks is a breeze, thanks to the variety of options available.
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