Book description
The Earth teems with life: in its oceans, forests, skies and cities. Yet there's a black hole at the heart of biology. We do not know why complex life is the way it is, or, for that matter, how life first began. In The Vital Question, award-winning author and biochemist Nick Lane radically reframes evolutionary history, putting forward a solution to conundrums that have puzzled generations of scientists.For two and a half billion years, from the very origins of life, single-celled organisms such as bacteria evolved without changing their basic form. Then, on just one occasion in four billion years, they made the jump to complexity. All complex life, from mushrooms to man, shares puzzling features, such as sex, which are unknown in bacteria. How and why did this radical transformation happen?The answer, Lane argues, lies in energy: all life on Earth lives off a voltage with the strength of a lightning bolt. Building on the pillars of evolutionary theory, Lane's hypothesis draws on cutting-edge research into the link between energy and cell biology, in order to deliver a compelling account of evolution from the very origins of life to the emergence of multicellular organisms, while offering deep insights into our own lives and deaths.Both rigorous and enchanting, The Vital Question provides a solution to life's vital question: why are we as we are, and indeed, why are we here at all?
Judge
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear listening in noisy environments. Streamlined audiobook integration – this app's usability is truly impressive. ListenBook Pro's unlimited audiobook length is a game-changer.
MuseMaster
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. Seamless integration of audiobooks – this app's ease of use is impressive. Audiobook excellence made simple – this app's functionality is a true asset. Audiobook pleasure simplified – this app's design is a standout.
Z-Boy
ListenBook's library organization features have transformed my chaotic audiobook collection into an organized masterpiece. The auto-rewind feature is a small detail that enhances my listening experience. It's these thoughtful touches that matter!
Fist Wizard
This app has introduced me to genres I never thought I'd enjoy – it's eye-opening. 📱 Carrying my favorite stories with me wherever I go – this app is like a portable library in my pocket. 📚👜
Crazy Rox
ListenBook's commitment to providing top-notch audio quality has taken my audiobook experience to a new level. I can't imagine a day without this app – it has made my audiobook journey seamless and fulfilling. 📱 An app that respects my time and delivers on functionality – audiobook listening has never been this effortless. 📖🔗 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.
VisionVortex
ListenBook's commitment to delivering an exceptional audiobook experience is evident in its thoughtful features and design. I'm hooked on this app's ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into exciting opportunities for learning. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to jump between sections. The narrator's voice was so pleasant and easy to listen to. They had perfect pacing and made even the slower parts engaging. I found myself looking forward to my commute just to listen more!
Lskeee
I'm rediscovering my favorite classics in a whole new way – through audiobooks! With this app, reading is no longer a luxury – it's a convenient habit. I'm impressed by the app's performance – it's stable, fast, and tailored for audiobook enthusiasts. Beautiful design and intuitive interface. Very user-friendly. The audio quality is excellent, and the interface is intuitive. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks.
Tea Kettle
This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go – it's like carrying a library in my pocket. The layout is not only beautiful but also intuitive. Controls are easy to access. ListenBook has become my workout buddy. It's seamlessly integrated with Apple Watch. The app's compatibility with CarPlay enhances my driving experience. Audiobooks on the road have never been better. My daily workouts are more enjoyable now, thanks to seamless integration with Apple Watch.
Twine X
🚗📚 Turn traffic into a literary escape – this app's functionality keeps me engaged while I'm on the move. 🚗🎧 Effortlessly managing my audiobook library – this app's design is a triumph. Thanks to ListenBook, downloading audiobooks from various sources has become effortless.
Friday Fox
Listening to audiobooks has turned mundane tasks into enjoyable experiences. No more hassle with converting files – ListenBook supports a wide range of formats for a seamless listening experience. Thanks to ListenBook's binaural audio processing, my extended listening sessions are fatigue-free. The app's performance is unparalleled. It's like it's tailor-made for my device.
CosPlatoon
ListenBook has added a new dimension to my audiobook listening experience – it's not just about the content, but the convenience too. ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a testament to the app's commitment to audio quality.
Pompeii Unicorn
I can't believe how much more I'm able to read with the help of this app. I'm addicted to this app – it's a non-stop journey through captivating tales. ListenBook has transformed my listening habits, making them more engaging and enjoyable. 📱 Unlocking the world of literature with just a tap – this app is my digital library card! 📚📱 ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a huge plus during long drives.
Kinged
This app's seamless integration with CarPlay and other devices has revolutionized my audiobook experience. Who knew that commuting could become such an enjoyable reading session? This app is like a personal audiobook concierge! The ability to download and organize audio files effortlessly is a game-changer for my reading routine. 📱📖 The user-friendly interface and smooth navigation make this app a pleasure to use daily.
Scarlet Mary
ListenBook's audiobook player is a true workhorse – chapters, controls, and filters are all seamlessly integrated. ListenBook's dedication to delivering an exceptional experience is evident in every detail. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable. The app supports a wide range of formats. ListenBook is very versatile.
Acetic Princess
With ListenBook, I can keep track of my audiobook consumption and explore new content with ease. Audiobooks made easy – this app's functionality is truly a gift.
Blister
ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a blessing for clear listening in noisy environments. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, making even the busiest days enjoyable. ListenBook's features are a dream come true for anyone who loves to learn on the go. This app's ease of use has made reading more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. With support for various formats, I can finally listen to my diverse audiobook collection.
Vixen
My kids are hooked on the children's audiobook collection – it's a parenting win! Configurable auto-rewind is genius. No more confusion when I pause and resume.
Baby Brown
ListenBook's dedication to delivering a high-quality playback experience sets it apart from other apps. I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. 🏝️ Basking in the sun while indulging in literary adventures – this app makes outdoor relaxation even better. ☀️📖 Audiobooks made convenient – this app's functionality is impressive. ListenBook has become an essential part of my daily routine. It's like my personal audiobook oasis.
Necromancer
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. 💃 Dancing to the rhythm of stories while I dance through house chores – pure joy! 💃📖 🎶📚 Replacing melodies with literary symphonies – my ears are in love! 🎵📚 Sharing audiobooks with friends is a blast. AirDrop makes it seamless.
Engine Eye
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! 🌟📚 An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
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