We’ve also got lists we’ve compiled ourselves, including some of the books we’ve come across and enjoyed listening to. For an expert introduction to what makes a good listening experience, we recommend this interview, with Robin and Mary Burkey, another audiobook veteran who has judged a number of prizes. We also have an entertaining selection of audiobooks for kids. Michele Cobb, Director of the Audio Publishers Association, talked through the shortlisted audiobooks of 2022. Columbia Culture Books The 16 Best Audiobooks to Listen. 39 at AUDIBLE Monster in a Box by Spalding Gray Not altogether unlike David Sedaris, Spalding Gray was a master storyteller one who built a fruitful career on his sprawling, funny, and often.

Perhaps some books which aren't so good can be transformed into something stunning by a great audio performance, or a book that's wonderful can be ruined by an audio performer who isn't great at dialogue (say).įor recommendations of the latest books, the Audie Awards are a great place to start. Never Mind by Edward St Aubyn A five-year-old Patrick Melrose comes across the lives of adults around him. The 16 Best Audiobooks to Listen to Right Now Esquire We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. The underlying book has to be good, but the audio performance has to be good, too. Atomic Habits by James Clear, narrated by the author (Penguin Audio) 2. And so: This is my list of the best audiobooks of 2020, chosen not because they’re so much better, necessarily, than every other title that hit the audio shelves this year (I’m still just one.

Foreign Policy & International Relationsįinding the best audiobooks is a tough task.

Best audio books