Book description
"A bold, sweeping bird's eye view of thousands of years of history that provides a truly global perspective of the past. A fantastic achievement."--Peter Frankopan, internationally bestselling author of The Silk Roads Prize-winning historian Naoíse Mac Sweeney delivers a captivating exploration of how "Western Civilization"--the concept of a single cultural inheritance extending from ancient Greece to modern times--is a powerful figment of our collective imagination. An urgently needed emergent voice in big history, she offers a bold new account of Western history, real and imagined, through the lives of fourteen remarkable individuals. In this groundbreaking, story-driven retelling of Western history, Naoíse Mac Sweeney debunks the myths and origin stories that underpin the history we thought we knew. Told through fourteen figures who each played a role in the creation of the Western idea--from Herodotus, a mixed-race migrant, to Phylis Wheatley, an enslaved African American who became a literary sensation; and from Gladstone, with a private passion for epic poetry, to the medieval Arab scholar Al-Kindi--the subjects are a mind-expanding blend of unsung heroes and familiar faces viewed afresh. These characters span the millennia and the continents, representing different religions, varying levels of wealth and education, diverse traditions and nationalities. Each life tells us something unexpected about the age in which it was lived and offers us a piece of the puzzle of how the modern idea of the West developed--and why we've misunderstood it for too long. The concept of "the West" is present in every daily interaction you have, from entertainment and politics to world markets and world history. This engagingly intimate history will reshape the way you see the world around you. At this moment of civilizational redefinition, if we are to chart a future for the West, we must properly understand its past.
Frosty Squid
ListenBook has made my commutes more enjoyable, transforming them into learning sessions. Discovering new literary worlds has never been this easy. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audiobook library is at my fingertips. 📚🔊 Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my audiobook library look organized and visually appealing. I love how customizable the playback speed is. It makes listening so much more enjoyable.
Hen Skittle
My kids are hooked on the children's audiobook collection – it's a parenting win! 🎉📚 Rekindling my passion for books – this app has sparked a reading revolution in my daily life! 🔥📖 ListenBook's user-friendly interface and quick access to chapters enhance my overall listening experience.
Bugger
I used to struggle to find time for books – now, I listen while doing chores! This app has made multitasking a breeze – I can listen while I work, cook, or exercise. This app has made audiobook listening an integral part of my daily routine – it's a habit I cherish. ListenBook has transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is a game-changer! Looping playback has transformed my study sessions. It's an invaluable tool for retaining information.
Raggedy Ann
This app has added a new layer of enjoyment to my downtime – I'm truly grateful. ListenBook's support for playlists in the CUE format makes organizing and enjoying audiobook series a delightful experience.
Kill Switch
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Cinder Coffee
ListenBook's support for various formats means I can explore a wide range of content without limitations. ListenBook has made managing and enjoying audiobooks, lectures, and speeches effortless and enjoyable. ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. The app's integration with Apple Watch makes it an indispensable tool for my active lifestyle. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
SneakerKid
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Trash Master
The app's intuitive design makes it easy to find and listen to my favorite authors. ListenBook's user-friendly interface and powerful features have rekindled my love for audiobooks. The audio filters and precise controls are fantastic!
Helmet Destroyer
Thanks to ListenBook, I'm now exploring different genres and formats I never thought I would. ListenBook's integration with AirDrop and sharing options makes it simple to spread the joy of storytelling. ListenBook's sharing options make it easy for me to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts. The statistics feature is brilliant. I love seeing how much time I spend on audiobooks with ListenBook.
Scrapple
Audiobooks have become my go-to gift for friends – and they all love it! ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch makes it a versatile companion for my daily activities. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch is a game-changer for my on-the-go listening. ListenBook has given me the gift of time – turning daily tasks into moments of inspiration. Navigating through chapters is a breeze. It's like the app knows what I need.
Skool
This app's support for various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks without any limitations. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature simplifies the process of adding new audiobooks to my collection. ListenBook's library organization keeps my audiobooks neat and accessible. A true organizational lifesaver!
Maple Destroyer
I'm in awe of how this app has made reading a part of my busy life. Audiobook heaven! This app has revolutionized the way I enjoy stories. Its sleek design and seamless functionality make it a must-have for book lovers. 📚🎧 Say goodbye to cumbersome interfaces – this app's intuitive controls and user-friendly design have elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. 📱🔊 Supports all my playlists and bookmarks seamlessly. Very convenient.
Omega Sub
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design and user-friendly interface. ListenBook has turned my daily routines into audiobook-driven journeys of imagination. This app has made waiting in lines and queues an opportunity for exploration and enjoyment. ListenBook's loop and shuffle playback options are essential for my audiobook enjoyment and study. I love the ability to change the playback pitch. It’s a unique feature.
WanderWord
I've fallen in love with genres I never thought I'd explore, all thanks to this app. ListenBook's seamless integration with CarPlay enhances my daily commute, making it a productive and enjoyable experience. Audiobooks on this app have made studying and learning a more enjoyable process. Binaural audio processing reduces fatigue during long listening sessions. A fantastic feature! ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it a joy to use. Five stars!
Sugar Man
ListenBook has transformed my mundane activities into enjoyable moments of learning and entertainment. Savoring stories has never been this smooth – this app's functionality is genius. ListenBook's support for a variety of audio formats ensures that my audiobook collection is always accessible. The quick access to chapters and controls makes the app a joy to use. I'm always in control. The auto-rewind feature is a thoughtful addition that enhances my listening journey. I appreciate it!
Little Cobra
This app's user-friendly layout and quick access to controls have made audiobook listening a breeze. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that I can enjoy my audiobooks hassle-free. ListenBook has revolutionized my audiobook enjoyment. It's an essential part of my daily routine. ListenBook has seamlessly integrated into my daily life, enhancing my workouts, commutes, and relaxation periods. It's an indispensable part of my routine. Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library.
Pyscho Hun
I've found solace in listening to audiobooks before bed – it's my form of meditation. 🎧 This app is my saving grace! Now I can enjoy my beloved books while cooking up a storm! 📚🍳 Audiobook multitasking simplified – this app's functionality is truly commendable. The app is perfect for long flights. It keeps me entertained the whole time. ListenBook has completely changed how I enjoy audiobooks. The app is packed with features like customizable skip intervals, playback speed, and sleep timers. The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Five stars!
Maple Destroyer
AirDrop sharing is a very convenient feature. Thanks, ListenBook! Adjustable playback speed and volume controls are fantastic features. Great app for audiobook enthusiasts. ListenBook supports a wide range of formats.
Achilles Mountain
I'm grateful for this app – it's made reading a part of my everyday life. This app has made reading a part of my lifestyle, no matter where I am.
Wings
ListenBook's multiple ways to download audio, including from the internet, are a game-changer. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a blast. AirDrop makes it seamless.
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