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  • Volume Control

  • Hearing in a Deafening World
  • Written by: David Owen
  • Narrated by: Fred Sanders
  • Length: 8 hrs and 29 mins

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Volume Control cover art

Volume Control

Written by: David Owen
Narrated by: Fred Sanders
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Publisher's Summary

The surprising science of hearing and the remarkable technologies that can help us hear better

Our sense of hearing makes it easy to connect with the world and the people around us. The human system for processing sound is a biological marvel, an intricate assembly of delicate membranes, bones, receptor cells, and neurons. Yet many people take their ears for granted, abusing them with loud restaurants, rock concerts, and Q-tips. And then, eventually, most of us start to go deaf.

Millions of Americans suffer from hearing loss. Faced with the cost and stigma of hearing aids, the natural human tendency is to do nothing and hope for the best, usually while pretending that nothing is wrong. In Volume Control, David Owen argues this inaction comes with a huge social cost. He demystifies the science of hearing while encouraging listeners to get the treatment they need for hearing loss and protect the hearing they still have.

Hearing aids are rapidly improving and becoming more versatile. Inexpensive high-tech substitutes are increasingly available, making it possible for more of us to boost our weakening ears without bankrupting ourselves. Relatively soon, physicians may be able to reverse losses that have always been considered irreversible. Even the insistent buzz of tinnitus may soon yield to relatively simple treatments and techniques. With wit and clarity, Owen explores the incredible possibilities of technologically assisted hearing. And he proves that ears, whether they're working or not, are endlessly interesting.

©2019 David Owen (P)2019 Penguin Audio

Critic Reviews

“Informative and entertaining.... In clear, appealing prose, Owen explains how loud sounds - machinery, live music, etc. - can leave people no longer noticing smoke alarms, sirens, gunshots, and backup signals...he makes earwax interesting... The book brims with useful advice.” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review)

“Timely and informative.... This well-researched and accessible introduction to the complicated subject of hearing loss is highly recommended for all science readers, not just those experiencing hearing impairments.” (Library Journal, starred review)  

“In Volume Control David Owen brings his superb skills as a reporter and storyteller to the increasingly urgent issue of hearing loss. The baby-boomers are aging—and so are their ears. Fortunately, and probably because of this demographic trend, both science and commerce are at last paying attention to this invisible but epidemic problem. Owen is an erudite and entertaining guide not only to the new technologies that make hearing aids better and more affordable, but to the myriad byways and curiosities he encounters in his research.” (Katherine Bouton, author of Smart Hearing and Shouting Won't Help)

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