If you’ve been staunchly anti-audiobooks…I get it. I love holding the physical book in my hands, turning the pages, being completely immersed in each written word.
But then I tried an audiobook and while I’m not a full convert, I understand the appeal now. All those chores I didn’t want to do? I press play on a book and suddenly doing the dishes isn’t so bad. Taking walks alone is more enjoyable with a thriller playing in my ears (although I wouldn’t recommend this at night!). Long car trips don’t feel like a waste of time—they’re spent reading my current book!
So, if you, like me, have been averse to trying an audiobook, find one by your favorite author, press play, and do some of your chores. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll have found a new way to enjoy reading!
If you’re unsure where to start, here are a few recently well-reviewed audiobooks to try:
Finding Me by Viola Davis, read by the author
A noted actress’s memoir, in her own words, spans her incredible, inspiring life, from her coming-of-age in Rhode Island to her present day.
Winner of the 2023 Grammy Award for Best Audio Book, Narration & Storytelling Recording, Kirkus Reviews said, “This memoir by the Oscar winner is unforgettable thanks to the author’s fiery narration.”
Place a hold on the audiobook here or on the e-audiobook here
Greek Lessons by Han Kang, read by Greta Jung and Earl T. Kim
A young Korean woman losing her ability to speak befriends a Greek language teacher who is losing his sight and discover they have even more in common.
“Listeners may find themselves pausing the audio to ponder the book’s philosophical musings—or perhaps simply rewinding to re-immerse themselves in Han’s lyrical prose, delicate imagery, and the possibilities of the senses.” -Booklist
Place a hold on the e-audiobook here
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy, read by the author
The iCarly and Sam & Cat star, after her controlling mother dies, gets the help she needs to overcome eating disorders, addiction and unhealthy relationships–and finally decides what she really wants for the first time in her life.
“Kirkus calls the memoir “heartbreaking,” and in many ways it is, but McCurdy displays a surprising dark sense of humor in both the writing and reading of this book, a sign that her healing has begun.”
Place a hold on the audiobook here or on the e-audiobook here
Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid, read by Stacy Gonzalez
A retired tennis champion comes out of retirement at age 37 after watching a young phenom beat her long-standing record at the 1994 US Open.
“Stacy Gonzalez’s emotional performance as Carrie, including Spanish-sprinkled conversations with her Argentine father/coach, is excellent. The large supporting cast includes former tennis pros Patrick McEnroe and Mary Carillo, and all the news shows and pundit debates are cleverly produced with theme music.” -Kirkus Reviews
Place a hold on the audiobook here or on the e-audiobook here
You Could Make This Place Beautiful by Maggie Smith, read by the author
The best-selling poet and author of Keep Moving offers a memoir that explores coming of age in the middle of life.
“It’s right that the author should narrate her painfully personal work…Heartbreakingly beautiful, this audio will move listeners to reflect on their own lives with insight, and, possibly, gratitude.” -Booklist
Place a hold on the audiobook here or on the e-audiobook here
-Linnea
Read it or Weep 