Do you prefer to listen to books via your favorite pair of noise canceling headphones or do you read them from page to page via good old paperback or a digital medium? If you’re in the former category and are indecisive over what to give a listen to next, then this list will guide you in choosing your next audiobook!
1. Such a Fun Age written by Kiley Reid, narrated by Nicole Lewis
This is a fun but also serious fiction work from the perspective of a Black babysitter and her well intentioned employer. It is well written, has heart, is empowering and a page turner as it addresses issues such as racism tensions.
2. Becoming written and narrated by Michelle Obama
The autobiography by the former First Lady addresses her childhood growing up on the South side of Chicago, her triumphs and disappointments (both public and private), learning to live life on her own terms and on being a mother. It benefits from mesmerizing storytelling and it’s filled with Mrs. Obama’s signature wit and honesty. It also won a Grammy for best spoken word.
3. Game of Thrones written by George R.R. Martin, narrated by Roy Dotrice
Finished with the Game of Thrones TV series? Then dive straight into the vast but unfinished novel series from George RR Martin. The novels are listed as follows: ‘A Game of Thrones’, ‘A Clash of Rings’, ‘A Storm of Swords’, ‘A Feast for Crows’ and ‘A Dance with Dragons’. They may be plenty and lengthy, but if you’re on a long haul road trip, they’re worth a listen!
4. The Body written and narrated by Bill Bryson
Anatomy enthusiasts will find this intriguing work to be an absolute treat! It is a head to toe exploration of the human body and it is as addictive as it is comprehensive and delivered in the classic, signature wit of one of my favorite travelog writers, Bill Bryson.
5. Artemis written by Andy Weir, narrated by Rosario Dawson
Rosario Dawson immaculately narrates the story of life in the first city on the Moon in this sci-fi space caper that revolves around an interstellar heist. Gripping, isn’t it?
6. The Hitch-Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy written by Douglas Adams, narrated by Stephen Fry
Stephen Fry’s ASMR-esque voice is the driving force behind this popular and fun sci-fi tale revolving around two friends who journey across space, meeting a variety of absurd characters along the way.
7. Bad Blood written by John Carreyrou, narrated by Will Damron
An audio book from the business section, this is the story of a revolutionary technology that is valuable in the field of medicine and its inventor is even touted as the next Steve Jobs, until the technology proves to be useless and the company is termed as fraudulent. The chaos that ensues as a result of this is captured brilliantly in this work.
8. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks written by Rebecca Skloot, narrated by Cassandra Campbell and Bahni Turpin
If non fiction is what you crave, then sink your teeth into the disturbing true story of a Black woman whose cells were harvested in the name of science without consent and used to create new biotechnology and to pioneer various advances in medicine. These scientific experiments continued without her family being compensated for the same. The audiobook also touches upon injustice towards the Black community as well as the birth of bioethics.
9. The Other Side of History written by Robert Garland and The Great Courses, narrated by Robert Garland
A unique work, this audio book covers the tales of average, regular people who were never part of history, nor made it big to be included in the history text books, but still contributed to society in their own overlooked way. They might not have been famous philosophers or army generals or even celebrated activists, but this is their story which is finally brought to the forefront.
10. The Odyssey written by Homer, translated from Ancient Greek by Robert Fitzgerald, narrated by Dan Stevens
Downton Abbey’s Dan Stevens narrates an epic tale that has inspired generations of fantasy writers with its larger than life characters and tales of grandeur that will leave you reeling in disbelief!
11. Kitchen Confidential written and narrated by Anthony Bourdain
The late chef and writer Anthony Bourdain leaves behind his legacy of travels across the globe and adventures in various kitchens. The narration has been praised as nothing short of exceptional.
12. Evil Has a Name written and narrated by Paul Holes and Jim Clemente
And last on this list is the true crime audio book that will send a chill down your spine and is not for the faint of heart. This one revolves around the notorious serial killer Golden State Killer who evaded the authorities till he was captured in 2018. Forensic criminologist Paul Holes and retired FBI agent Jim Clemente narrate this absorbing but horrific tale.
All these audiobooks are available on platforms such as Audible, Google Play Books, Kobo and Apple books, so grab a copy to listen to now! Don’t forget to share with fellow audiobook enthusiasts and literary nerds.
