Book description
The riveting story of five families shattered by pernicious, pervasive conspiracy theories, and how we might set ourselves free from a crisis that could haunt American life for generations. "Compassionate, wise, and thoroughly reported . . . one of the defining books of our time."--Johann Hari, New York Times bestselling author of Magic Pill "SHED MY DNA" three excruciating words uttered by a QAnon-obsessed mother, once a highly respected lawyer, to her only son, once the closest person in her life. QAnon beliefs and adjacent conspiracy theories have had devastating political consequences as they've exploded in popularity. What's often overlooked is the lasting havoc they wreak on our society at its most basic and intimate level--the family. In The Quiet Damage, celebrated reporter Jesselyn Cook paints a harrowing portrait of the vulnerabilities that have left so many of us susceptible to outrageous falsehoods promising order, purpose, and control. Braided throughout are the stories of five American families: an elderly couple whose fifty-year romance takes a heartbreaking turn; millennial sisters of color who grew up in dire poverty--one to become a BLM activist, the other, a hardcore conspiracy theorist pulling her little boy down the rabbit hole with her; a Bay Area hippie-type and her business-executive fiancΓ©, who must decide whether to stay with her as she turns into a stranger before his eyes; evangelical parents whose simple life in a sleepy suburb spirals into delusion-fueled chaos; and a rural mother-son duo who, after carrying each other through unspeakable tragedy, stop speaking at all as ludicrous untruths shatter a bond long thought unbreakable. Charting the arc of each believer's path from their first intersection with conspiracy theories to the depths of their cultish conviction, to--in some cases--their rejection of disinformation and the mending of fractured relationships, Cook offers a rare, intimate look into the psychology of how and why ordinary people come to believe the unbelievable. Profound, brilliantly researched, and beautifully written, The Quiet Damage lays bare how we have been taken hostage by grifters peddling lies built on false hope--and how we might release our loved ones, and ourselves, from their grasp.
About the Author
Jesselyn Cook is an award-winning investigative reporter and journalism lecturer who has written extensively about online conspiracy theories and their offline harms. Prior to covering the tech beat at NBC News, she was a senior reporter on HuffPost's national enterprise desk. She holds a master's degree in journalism and international relations from New York University and was selected as a 2025 Nieman Fellow at Harvard University.
Switch
I'm rediscovering my favorite classics in a whole new way β through audiobooks! The convenience of switching between devices without losing my place is a lifesaver. ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. Quick access to chapters and controls makes ListenBook a breeze to use. It's an intuitive experience.
Teeder
ListenBook has transformed my daily activities into opportunities for personal growth. This app's user-friendly layout and quick access to controls have made audiobook listening a breeze. Kudos to the creators for crafting an app that understands audiobook lovers. With smooth playback and thoughtful design, it's a true companion for book enthusiasts. ππ I'm impressed by the extensive statistics feature, allowing me to track my audiobook consumption over time. Unlimited audiobook length with ListenBook Pro is a game-changer.
InsightInkwell
ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make navigation effortless. I can't imagine my life without this app β it's my passport to countless stories.
Miss Mustard
With ListenBook, every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories and gain knowledge. ListenBook's sleek design and intuitive controls make it my go-to app for audiobooks. This app's sleek design and effortless controls have made audiobook listening an immersive experience. The speed adjustment feature is my secret weapon for studying complex materials. Adjusting the tone of the narrator's voice is a unique touch β it's like having a personalized reading.
StarZen
The ListenBook app has become an indispensable part of my daily routine, helping me learn and relax simultaneously. ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful β I'm hooked! Audiobooks made easy β this app's functionality is truly a gift. Supports artwork and metadata perfectly. My library looks great!
Shady Prairie
The sheer variety of genres available ensures there's something for everyone. The fact that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats without DRM protection is a huge win. I'm impressed by ListenBook's commitment to providing a silky-smooth playback experience. The layout of ListenBook is so beautiful and user-friendly, making it a pleasure to use. Gone are the days of fumbling with different formats β this app's comprehensive support ensures I can enjoy any audiobook without a hitch. ππ
Gro
Audiobooks have turned my quiet moments into imaginative journeys β thank you, app! ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is like a magic wand that transforms even the noisiest environments into cozy listening spaces. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true savior for immersive listening, even in busy surroundings. With support for various formats, I can finally listen to my diverse audiobook collection.
Innocent Ghost
ListenBook's dedication to enhancing the audiobook experience has made it my preferred app for listening to content on the go. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration ensures that I can enjoy my content wherever I go. π§ My daily chores just got an upgrade! Thanks to this app, I can dive into captivating stories while cooking and cleaning. ππ³ Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
57 Pixels
I'm addicted to this app's curated playlists and recommendations β they're spot on. Elevating my reading experience to a whole new level, this app's user-friendly interface and easy navigation have me hooked. Audiobooks have never been this enjoyable! π±π Looping playback has taken my language learning to new heights. Highly recommended!
Mud Pie Man
Audiobooks have made my workouts more enjoyable, and I'm seeing results! ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique tool that adds a touch of creativity to my listening experience. ListenBook's comprehensive format support makes it the ultimate companion for audiobook enthusiasts.
Kitchen
This app is a gift for anyone with a busy lifestyle β I can enjoy books while doing chores! ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. ListenBook's comprehensive format support makes it the ultimate companion for audiobook enthusiasts.
Lskeee
The narrators have a way of bringing characters to life β it's a unique experience. I'm hooked on this app's effortless integration with my daily activities. ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments.
Curio
ListenBook's extensive library and user-friendly interface have made it my go-to app. ListenBook's attention to detail is commendable. Every aspect of the app is well-crafted. Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features. Love the silky-smooth playback and easy-to-use interface. ListenBook is the best!
Zesty Dragon
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. The narrator's voices are so soothing β a perfect way to unwind after a stressful day. π Ironing has become a joy with audiobooks β wrinkles are no match for these captivating stories! ππ§ Navigating through chapters is effortless with ListenBook. It's a user-friendly and intuitive experience. Looping playback is an invaluable tool for my study sessions. It helps me grasp complex concepts.
Atlantic Rim
The app's customization options allow me to tailor the listening experience to my liking. ListenBook has made managing and enjoying audiobooks a seamless and delightful experience. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my library look organized and professional. The audio quality is excellent, and the interface is intuitive. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. ListenBookβs bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Cool Law Topping
ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay has made my drives more informative. π This app is a game-changer β its intuitive design and seamless functionality make listening to audiobooks a joy. ππ§ ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a unique touch that adds personalization to my audiobook journey.
NoiseCake
The app's customization options allow me to tailor the listening experience to my liking. I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. This app's ease of use has made reading an integral part of my everyday life. π± It's like having a personal audiobook library at my fingertips! This app's functionality is a dream come true for book lovers. ππ₯ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer. It enhances the clarity of recordings and makes my listening sessions more enjoyable.
Amphibi-Dangerous
This app has reignited my love for literature in the most delightful way. I'm hooked on this app's curated content β it's like having a personal librarian. This app has turned my screen time into valuable learning opportunities. Audiobooks on demand? Yes, please! With this app's robust features, I'm always just a tap away from immersing myself in captivating narratives. ππ±
Mad Jack
This app has rekindled my passion for literature in a whole new way. This app has made my daily walks a time for both exercise and learning. π Who needs TV when you have this app? Every moment is a storytelling session! πΊπ§ Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app!
Kabuki
π± A world of books at my fingertips β this app's user-friendly design makes it a true reading companion. ππ± Navigating audiobooks seamlessly β this app's design is top-notch. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to connect over shared interests.
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