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!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
BLOOD, BONES & BUTTER: The Inadvertent Education of a Reluctant Chef, written and read by Gabrielle Hamilton
Hamilton’s sincere memoir reveals the path she took to become a famed chef. Her narration is a perfect complement to her witty prose.
Listen now. Time 2:32
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.5 MB
ELECTRIC BARRACUDA by Tim Dorsey, read by Oliver Wyman
Vigilante killer Serge A. Storms and his companion, a drugged-out slacker named Coleman, are on the lam in Florida. Wyman's narration is as wacky as the story.
Listen now. Time 2:28
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.5 MB
MASTERS OF DISASTER by Gary Paulsen, read by Nick Podehl
Henry is bored with his mundane 12-year-old life, so he convinces his friends to follow him on a series of increasingly ridiculous adventures. Podehl's narration maximizes the boys’ humorous exploits. Great for ages 10 and up.
Listen now. Time 2:40
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB
YOU SHALL KNOW OUR VELOCITY! by Dave Eggers, read by Dion Graham
After their childhood friend is killed, Will and Hand decide to travel around the world to distribute a windfall to the needy and deserving. Dion Graham's narration of the young men's crazy adventures is spot-on.
Listen now. Time 2:28
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.5 MB
UNFAMILIAR FISHES by Sarah Vowell, read by Sarah Vowell, John Slattery, Paul Rudd, and a full cast
Historian Sarah Vowell serves up the story of the "cultural collision between native Hawaiians and New Englanders." Vowell, accompanied by a full cast, creates a truly memorable listening experience.
Listen now. Time 2:57
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.7 MB
SING YOU HOME by Jodi Picoult, read by Therese Plummer and Brian Hutchinson
Picoult’s novel tells the story of Zoe Baxter, music therapist who finds herself falling in love with a woman after her husband leaves her. The expert narration and accompanying music make for a bittersweet and riveting listening experience.
Listen now. Time 2:49
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.7 MB
WINTER'S BONE by Daniel Woodrell, read by Emma Galvin
This dark, captivating novel focuses on 16-year-old Ree Dolly and her family. Galvin's performance captures both the young woman’s innocence and surprising worldliness.
Listen now. Time 2:03
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.2 MB
This bold depiction of a 14-year-old Sherlock Holmes succeeds splendidly. Weyman excels in introducing an intelligent, warm yet shy boy. Perfect for young adult listeners.
Listen now. Time 2:36
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.5 MB
BIG WHEAT by Richard A. Thompson, read by Kevin Kenerly
Thompson has a real feel for the landscape and weather of the prairie, and Kenerly’s easy-listening narration style fits this mystery's leisurely pace.
Listen now. Time 2:49
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.7 MB
THE SINGULARITY IS NEAR by Ray Kurzweil, read by George K. Wilson
Kurzweil predicts that, in the near future, human brain power and computers will become one. Wilson narrates with an assured pace that allows the listener to consider each complex idea. Reviewed by Bob Grundfest.
Listen now. Time 2:51
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 2.7 MB
THE SEVEN-DAY SCHOLAR by Dennis Gaffney and Peter Gaffney, read by Dan John Miller
The first in a series on American history, the authors give readers good history in small bites, use interesting personal stories, and recommend sources. Miller's narration is both friendly and respectful. Reviewed by Bob Grundfest.
Listen now. Time 2:54
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 2.7 MB
SoundReview support comes from Harper Audio and Hachette Audio.
TANGLED WEBS by James Stewart, read by Michael Kramer
Is lying becoming an epidemic in America, especially among corporate giants? Stewart gives us an in-depth study of how mendacity is affecting our culture. Kramer adds urgency to the reading. Reviewed by Bob Grundfest.
Listen now. Time 2:49
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 3.3 MB
SoundReview support comes from Harper Audio and Hachette Audio.