Book description
James Watson and Francis Crick's 1953 discovery of the double helix structure of DNA is the foundation of virtually every advance in our modern understanding of genetics and molecular biology. But how did Watson and Crick do it--and why were they the ones who succeeded?In truth, the discovery of DNA's structure is the story of five towering minds in pursuit of the advancement of science, and for almost all of them, the prospect of fame and immortality: Watson, Crick, Rosalind Franklin, Maurice Wilkins, and Linus Pauling. Each was fascinating and brilliant, with strong personalities that often clashed. Howard Markel skillfully re-creates the intense intellectual journey, and fraught personal relationships, that ultimately led to a spectacular breakthrough. But it is Rosalind Franklin--fiercely determined, relentless, and an outsider at Cambridge and the University of London in the 1950s, as the lone Jewish woman among young male scientists--who becomes a focal point for Markel. The Secret of Life is a story of genius and perseverance, but also a saga of cronyism, misogyny, anti-Semitism, and misconduct. Drawing on voluminous archival research, including interviews with James Watson and with Franklin's sister, Jenifer Glynn, Markel provides a fascinating look at how science is done, how reputations are undone, and how history is written, and revised.A vibrant evocation of Cambridge in the 1950s, Markel also provides colorful depictions of Watson and Crick--their competitiveness, idiosyncrasies, and youthful immaturity--and compelling portraits of Wilkins, Pauling, and most cogently, Rosalind Franklin. The Secret of Life is a lively and sweeping narrative of this landmark discovery, one that finally gives the woman at the center of this drama her due.
Wanted Candy
The ability to adjust the tone of the narrator's voice is a creative touch that adds depth to my listening. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a creative feature that adds a personal touch to the experience.
ZenZone
The 'Continue Listening' feature ensures I never lose my place, no matter where I am. I love how this app turns even the dullest tasks into exciting storytelling moments. This app has made my commutes and long drives a source of joy and learning. Audiobook listening has never been this easy and convenient – it's like having a personal narrator. Elegant design and easy-to-use interface. Very happy with ListenBook.
Dez Bonbon
The ability to listen to books while multitasking is a game-changer for me. The app's attention to detail is commendable. It's evident in every feature. Supports all audio formats I use without issues. Very happy.
Swedish Twizz
ListenBook's extensive library and user-friendly interface have made it my go-to app. I’ve been using ListenBook for months, and it’s been a fantastic experience. The app is lightweight, doesn’t drain my battery, and works perfectly in the background. The equalizer and voice boost features are amazing. Highly recommend!
RetroMirage
Thank you for making my reading goals more achievable and enjoyable. I'm amazed at how this app has made my workouts more motivating and my audiobooks more accessible. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options are essential for my audiobook enjoyment and study.
Midnight Bat
This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience. I can't believe how easy it is to download audio from various sources. So convenient! Not bad, but not amazing either. The narrator’s voice was pleasant, though some parts felt a bit rushed. The story had its moments, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it over similar titles in the genre.
WanderWord
Audiobooks have become my preferred way to unwind – and this app is my partner in crime. The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits – so cool! ListenBook's integration of artwork and metadata adds a visually appealing touch to my library. This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience.
Scooby Did
Hands down, the best audiobook collection I've ever come across. It has everything I want to listen to. The ability to switch between different books effortlessly is a major plus. The narrators on this app are truly talented – they bring characters to life. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch is a seamless addition to my daily routine. Auto-rewind is a very handy feature. Excellent app.
Crazy Eights
Elegant design and user-friendly interface. Love it! ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Mr. Fabulous
With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of literature during my daily walks – it's truly invigorating. I'm amazed by the app's compatibility with different audio formats. It's truly versatile. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. The app is so intuitive. I didn’t even need to read the instructions. Solid performance overall though some character voices sounded too similar. I occasionally got confused about who was speaking in dialogue-heavy scenes.
Star Jammer
The interface is clean and intuitive. I was up and running in seconds. CUE playlist support is a fantastic organizational feature. It keeps my audiobooks neatly arranged.
Skirble
Audiobooks have never been this engaging – this app takes them to the next level. 🎉 Rekindling my love for reading – this app has reintroduced me to the joy of books in a whole new way. 📚🔥 Navigating audiobooks seamlessly – this app's design is a true winner. Effortlessly managing my audiobook library – this app's design is commendable. With ListenBook, downloading audiobooks has become hassle-free, thanks to the various download options.
Pink Stream
I've never been so entertained while doing household chores – this app is a lifesaver! Frequent updates ensure there's always something new and exciting to listen to. My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend! This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Austin Shamrock
This app's convenience has revolutionized the way I experience books. 📚 Ironing has become a joy with audiobooks – wrinkles are no match for these captivating stories! 👗🎧 ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch adds a new level of convenience to my audiobook journey. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a fun and convenient way to share the magic of storytelling with friends and family, sparking meaningful discussions. ListenBook has become my constant companion. It's like having a personal audiobook assistant.
Ladysmith
ListenBook's compatibility with various formats ensures I never miss out on any audio gem. I can't believe how easily this app has fit into my daily routine. Streamlining my audiobook journey – this app's design is top-notch. With ListenBook, I can finally enjoy my audiobooks without worrying about format compatibility. It handles everything!
Petite Beauty
This app's convenience has made reading a priority in my busy schedule. 🚶♀️📖 Exploring stories as I stroll – audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. 🏞️🎧 Packed with useful features. My favorite audiobook app!
Marshmallow Treat
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature has made my audio content much more enjoyable in noisy environments. Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my personal audiobooks, lectures, and speeches effortlessly. The app is perfect for people who love to read but don’t have the time.
EchoExplorer
ListenBook's support for various download methods means I can acquire new content in a way that suits me best. I can't imagine my audiobook routine without ListenBook's intuitive and user-friendly design. Library organization is brilliant. No more cluttered audiobook collection. Tone adjustment is such a unique feature. It's like customizing the narrator's voice. The app is so well-designed. It’s clear the developers put a lot of thought into it.
Daffy Girl
The 'Explore' feature has introduced me to authors I might never have discovered otherwise. 🔥 Spicing up my routine with this app – it's like having a personal storyteller on hand at all times! ✨📖 ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a game-changer. I can now focus on the story even in noisy environments. The app's compatibility with CarPlay adds an extra layer of convenience, especially during road trips. 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!
RedFeet
Audiobooks have made my morning routine something to look forward to. Apple Watch compatibility enhances my audiobook experience. It's a convenient way to control playback. The app's performance is nothing short of impressive – smooth, responsive, and designed with audiobook lovers in mind.
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