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?
New Cycle
This app has transformed my screen time into valuable learning and entertainment. Audiobook enjoyment has become an integral part of my routine, thanks to this app's seamless integration and user-friendly design. A must-have! ππ±
Romance Guppy
ListenBook's comprehensive support for a wide range of audio formats sets it apart from other audiobook apps. 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§ ListenBook is a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts. It's reliable, versatile, and a pleasure to use.
Bazooka Har-de-har
I'm amazed at how this app has expanded my reading horizons. π Unleashing the power of audiobooks with this user-friendly app β it's like having a personal storyteller on demand! ππ₯ π§ Navigating through narratives has never been simpler β this app's functionality enhances my audiobook journey. ππ« The audio filters in ListenBook allow me to customize my listening experience. Speed up or slow down playbackβit's all up to me! Bookmarks are a lifesaver for audiobook lovers. They help me keep track of important moments.
Desert Haze
I can't get enough of the celebrity narrators β they add a unique charm to each book. I'm so grateful for this app β it's like having a personal storyteller wherever I go. This app is my secret weapon for making the most of my free time. ListenBook has made my daily routines more vibrant and exciting with its immersive features. π This app's functionality is a masterpiece β it seamlessly integrates audiobooks into my daily routine. ππ¨
1st Degree
I can't thank the developers enough for constantly updating and improving the app. Accessing literary treasures has never been this straightforward β thank you, app!
Sleek Zelda
I'm exploring new genres and authors I wouldn't have considered otherwise. I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits β so cool! With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my daily routines more enriching and rewarding. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval add a professional touch to my audiobook library.
Mosquit-No
The ability to change playback speed and audio volume on ListenBook gives me full control over my listening experience. This app's library is a treasure trove β I'm always discovering new favorites.
Liquid Science
It's impressive how the app caters to both seasoned readers and newcomers. I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. With this app, audiobook listening has become an integral part of my daily routines β it's pure bliss. Navigating audiobooks seamlessly β this app's design is top-notch.
Universe Bullet
I'm finally making progress on my reading goals, thanks to this app's convenience. π This app's functionality is a masterpiece β it seamlessly integrates audiobooks into my daily routine. ππ¨
Taffy Duchess
ππ Transforming traffic jams into opportunities for literary exploration β this app keeps me engaged on the road! ππ§ ListenBook's tone adjustment feature in the Pro version is a creative tool that adds a fun twist to my audiobook journey. My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch.
Freeway
π Ironing has become a joy with audiobooks β wrinkles are no match for these captivating stories! ππ§ Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that enhances the immersion in the content.
Copilot
The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits β so cool! I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn any moment into a reading opportunity. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that enhances the immersion in the content.
QuestQuill
ListenBook has rekindled my love for learning, one audio experience at a time. This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of intellectual discovery β a win-win! With this app, I've turned my daily commutes into exciting journeys through the world of literature. With support for various formats, I can finally listen to my diverse audiobook collection.
Mud Finger
No more worries about compatibility β ListenBook handles numerous formats flawlessly. π‘ Enriching my daily routines with wisdom and wonder β thank you, this app! π±π π‘ Making house chores more enjoyable β audiobooks help me stay engaged while tidying up the living space. π π Mastering audiobook navigation β this app's ease of use is commendable.
Double Eerie
This app isn't just a tool, it's a wellspring of inspiration and positive vibes. ListenBook's intuitive controls and beautiful layout make my audiobook experience a delightful one. The convenience of downloading audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of reading through my ears, making every moment more valuable. ListenBook's statistics feature is both enlightening and motivating. It's incredible to see the time I've invested in learning through audiobooks.
ThoughtTraveler
This app has turned audiobook listening into a daily ritual for me. This app has enriched my daily routine with the joy of stories and knowledge. Audiobooks at my fingertips β this app's functionality is truly impressive.
East Army
ListenBook's support for various formats means I can explore a wide range of content without limitations. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook Pro is a brilliant way to connect. πββοΈπ Combining exercise and exploration β this app keeps me motivated on my daily jogs! πββοΈπ Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a breeze to use. It's an intuitive experience.
Sepukku
With a vast genre selection, I've broadened my horizons and explored new topics. With this app, I can dive into captivating narratives while cooking, cleaning, or commuting β pure magic! This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go β it's like carrying a library in my pocket. 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 Book groups help me keep series together and navigate my collection more efficiently. A great feature!
Roadspike
With this app, reading is no longer a luxury β it's an essential part of my day. Audiobooks have never been this accessible and enjoyable. This app's compatibility with various formats and its emphasis on user experience have made it an essential tool for me. π±π
Moon Laser
ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch integration has elevated my listening experience. ListenBook has transformed my daily commute. I look forward to my journeys with this app by my side. is a time-saver. It's convenient for accessing my content.
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