Top audiobook picks from AudioFile. Each title gives an exceptional audio experience--a synergy of author and narrator for great listening. Hear excerpts from each title and listen to a candid AudioFile review. AudioFile is an independent source of audiobook views and news. All audiobooks, all the time!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
FIREFLIES IN DECEMBER by Jennifer Erin Valent, read by Kate Forbes
In 1930s era segregated Virginia, a white family takes in a black girl whose parents are killed in a fire. Forbes is perfect as the hot-tempered, determined 13-year-old Jessilyn who tells this story.
Listen now. Time 2:37
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB
SMILEY'S PEOPLE by John le Carré, performed by Simon Russell Beale and a full cast
The BBC's stunning dramatization of le Carré's works reaches its conclusion in this volume. Beale and the full cast deliver this audio drama beautifully.
Listen now. Time 2:41
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB
THIS ISN'T WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE, by Pseudonymous Bosch, read by Robert Petkoff, Joshua Swanson, et al
A secret society, time-travel chocolate, and the quest for immortality are part of the puzzle to be solved by three unlikely friends in this follow-up to THIS BOOK IS NOT GOOD FOR YOU. The full cast makes this Bosch adventure one to remember and a great choice for listeners ages 8 and up.
Listen now. Time 2:51
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB
TRESPASS by Rose Tremain, read by Juliet Stevenson
Rarely are a book and a narrator as superbly and perfectly matched as TRESPASS and Juliet Stevenson. Even if you’ve read the novel already, you must listen to this audiobook.
Listen now. Time 2:42
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB
THE CURSE OF THE WENDIGO by Rick Yancey, read by Steven Boyer
Yancey's followup to THE MONSTRUMOLOGIST has Will Henry on another monster-hunting expedition. Boyer's eloquent narration creates an even, flawless listening experience perfect for young adults.
Listen now. Time 2:52
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.7 MB
COLONEL ROOSEVELT by Edmund Morris, read by Mark Deakins
Morris's biography examines the final years of Roosevelt's life, and Deakins' exemplary narration makes our considerable investment of time worth every minute.
Listen now. Time 2:52
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.7 MB
THE FALSE FRIEND written and read by Myla Goldberg
20 years ago, Celia witnessed the abduction of her best friend Djuna. Now she is trying to absolve herself of lingering guilt. Goldberg is both a talented writer and narrator, hitting all the right notes in this exquisite and heartfelt audio.
Listen now. Time 2:50
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.7 MB
ZORGAMAZOO by Robert Paul Weston, read by Alan Cumming
Written in verse, Weston's charming story of the imaginative Katrina and her friend Mortimer's quest to find the missing Zorgles is a real treat on audio. Narrator Cumming finds the perfect rhythm. Ideal for ages 10 and up.
Listen now. Time 3:05
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.8 MB
RAPTURE OF THE DEEP by L.A. Meyer, read by Katherine Kellgren
In the 7th in Meyer’s popular Bloody Jack series, Jacky is about to marry her true love, Jamie, when she is unceremoniously scooped up by Royal Intelligence and commanded to carry out a dangerous new mission. Kellgren's talents shine in this young adult volume.
Listen now. Time 2:38
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB
STORIES I ONLY TELL MY FRIENDS, written and read by Rob Lowe
The “West Wing” actor and one-time teen idol provides an astute look at his life, career, and the “celebrity phenomenon.” Lowe’s narration is personal, warm, and skilled.
Listen now. Time 2:52
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB