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.
Lime
ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. ListenBook's intuitive controls and features have made it my preferred choice for audiobooks. This app's convenience has turned my exercise sessions into enlightening moments. πΆββοΈπ Strolling through captivating narratives has never been easier β this app's intuitive controls make audiobook listening a delight. π§ποΈ Automatic metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is finally well-organized.
BoomerBox
This app has reignited my passion for reading, and I'm forever grateful. ListenBook has turned my audio content into an immersive, personalized, and unforgettable experience. Finally, an app that supports a wide range of audio formats! It's a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts.
Jade Fox
CUE playlist support is a rare gem. Perfect for organizing content efficiently. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate customized listening sessions, whether for study, relaxation, or entertainment.
360
I can't believe how easy it is to dive into a new world with this app. β° Waking up to audiobooks β mornings have never been this magical and inspiring! βοΈπ§ Organizing my audiobook library has never been easier. The app keeps everything tidy.
Achilles Mountain
The sleep timer is a brilliant addition β I drift off to sleep with amazing stories. ListenBook's support for various download methods and audio formats ensures that I always have access to my favorite content. The sleep timer is a lifesaver. I fall asleep listening to my books every night.
Pixy Mox
ListenBook's versatile features have made my audiobook experience more enjoyable than ever. βοΈ This app's functionality is a symphony of efficiency β I'm savoring stories with ease, even on the busiest days. πΆπ Accessing my favorite audiobooks has never been easier β this app's user-centric design and comprehensive features make it an absolute gem. π±π§ Looping playback is a study aid sent from heaven. It's helping me ace my exams! The app is perfect for multitaskers. I can listen while working out.
Zero Charisma
Savoring stories has never been this smooth β this app's functionality is genius. 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 My audiobook collection has never been more organized. Library management is a breeze. The app is perfect for language learners. The playback speed control is a game-changer.
NemesisX
This app's user-friendly controls and sleek design have made audiobook listening a truly immersive journey. I'm hooked on this app's effortless integration with my daily activities. ποΈ Basking in the sun while indulging in literary adventures β this app makes outdoor relaxation even better. βοΈπ Accessing my favorite audiobooks has never been easier β this app's user-centric design and comprehensive features make it an absolute gem. π±π§
Flame OUT
The app's performance is remarkable β it's fast, stable, and designed to cater to audiobook enthusiasts. It's a pleasure to use. Easy chapter access and smooth playback. Love this app! 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.
Classy Dancer
The app's reliability and ease of use make it a true gem in the world of audiobooks. ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. Now I can enjoy my favorite lectures and speeches with ease! This app has helped me achieve my reading goals and explore new genres effortlessly. ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. Say goodbye to monotony β this app's diverse format support and intuitive controls have turned my daily activities into thrilling audiobook adventures. π±π
VenusLion
ListenBook has made my daily activities more interesting and meaningful β I'm hooked! This app's simplicity has made me fall in love with books all over again. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear and distraction-free listening. Elegant design and user-friendly interface. Love it!
WittyWordsmith
This app's convenience has transformed my screen time into meaningful reading sessions. With support for various audio formats, ListenBook ensures I can enjoy my favorite audiobooks without worries. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun and interactive way to bond over stories.
RealmRanger
I'm hooked on this app's sleek design and seamless performance β it's a must-have for any reader. I'm grateful for this app β it's made reading a part of my everyday life.
Cumulo
I can finally tackle my reading list while stuck in traffic β what a win! ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook experience. It's my go-to app for literary adventures. The app's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch enhances my listening experience on the go.
Pocket Mazda
With ListenBook, I can now enjoy my favorite audiobooks and speeches with the utmost comfort and convenience. Audiobooks on this app have transformed my daily routines into engaging experiences. ListenBook has made my daily walks so much more enjoyable. I'm always learning now! Automated artwork and metadata extraction add a professional touch to my audiobook collection. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. Itβs a unique feature.
RedFisher
The app's interface is sleek and modern, making it a joy to use. The narration elevated an already good book to greatness! The performer's subtle vocal variations conveyed nuance I might have missed while reading. Their ability to maintain consistent character voices across many hours was impressive. Technical quality was flawless throughout.
ManMaker
Seamless audiobook integration β this app's design is a true delight. The app is perfect for long walks. It keeps me company the whole time. 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!
Scuffs
The extensive statistics feature on ListenBook helps me track my audiobook consumption habits β so cool! π‘ This app is a brilliant way to squeeze in reading time amidst my busy schedule! π±π©βπ³ 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! An audiobook Iβll listen to again! The story was engaging, and the narratorβs performance made it even better. Some parts were so well-delivered that I replayed them just to hear the emotion again.
Flakes
With ListenBook, I can finally enjoy my audiobooks without worrying about format compatibility. It handles everything! ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options are essential for my audiobook enjoyment and study. Tone adjustment is a thoughtful addition that adds a personal touch to the audiobook narration. It's like having a narrator tailor their voice to my preferences. This was an adequate audiobook for casual listening. The narrator maintained a consistent pace and clear diction throughout, though their performance lacked some emotional range. The audio quality was fine with no significant technical distractions.
Mr. Alien
Listening to audiobooks while gardening has made my outdoor time even more relaxing. With this app, every moment becomes an opportunity to indulge in fantastic stories. The controls, layout, and seamless playback are a reader's dream. ππ§ Automatic metadata retrieval adds a professional touch to my audiobook collection.
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