Energy

An Audio Guide

By: Vaclav Smil

Narrated by: Dave Ferguson

In this user-friendly and informative audiobook, prolific author and academic Vaclav Smil provides an introduction to this far-reaching term and gives the listener a greater understanding of energy's place in both past and present society. Starting with an explanation of the concept, he goes on to cover such exciting topics as the inner workings of the human body, and the race for more efficient and environmentally friendly fuels. Whether you're after insight or dinner table conversation, Energy will amaze and inform, uncovering the science behind one of the most important concepts in our universe.©2006 Vaclav Smil (P)2012 Bolinda Publishing

Critic reviews

“Smil's Energy is rich in thoughtful insights and written in sparkling prose, this little book offers a sweeping survey of the many ways that energy moves our economy and ecology.” (David G. Victor – Director, Program on Energy and Sustainable Development, Stanford University)

“This admirably clear and comprehensive guide shows how we us and misuse energy, and the prospects, as ever more if us devour the Earth's diminishing capital of fossil fuels.” (Sir Crispin Tickell, Director of the Policy Foresight Programme at the James Martin 21st Century School, University of Oxford, and Chairman Emeritus of the Climate Institute, Washington, DC)

Too many numbers for Audio, but great book

Really good book, but I think I should have read it, not listened to. Numbers loose a lot of their meaning when you only hear them and you cannot stop to compare.

Not really for “beginners”

As someone that has long had an interest in energy and the policies surrounding the choices we face, and as someone that loves math, I enjoyed this book.

My issue with the book is in calling it a beginner’s guide… it isn’t. Unlike most of the Bolinda Guides that I have read (and thoroughly enjoyed), this book will throw a lot of numbers at you and assumes the reader has a basic understanding of terminology and principles of energy.

Great journey through the concept of energy

Great narration & introduction to energy and the role it plays in our lives. First chapters are a little bit like high school textbook but after that foundation the ideas continue to build on previous concepts. I look forward to listening to Smil's "Oil" next.

Incredibly balanced, complete & organized.

Would you listen to Energy: Bolinda Beginner Guides again? Why?

Fantastic outline of energy systems with well-balanced presentation of ideas that should not be but usually are controversial.

beginner or not... great book

love the specifics. great research and leaves open for reader/listener to make interpretations. looking forward to others on this subject by this author.