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!
Friday, September 30, 2011
NO BIKING IN THE HOUSE WITHOUT A HELMET by Melissa Fay Greene, read by Coleen Marlo
Greene writes about her family of four biological children and five adopted children. Marlo narrates the family's happiness and rocky moments with enthusiasm and tenderness.
Listen now. Time 2:25
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.4 MB
This novel examines the effects of accusations of sexual abuse on the families and friends of Catholic priests. Plummer masterfully narrates the emotional first-person narrative.
Listen now. Time 2:29
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 2.9 MB
What would happen if a plane carrying Teen Dream Beauty Queens were to crash on an (almost) deserted island? As narrator, Bray puts her theatrical background to good use, making this a must-listen for any young adult.
Listen now. Time 3:37
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 4.2 MB
THE SIXTY-EIGHT ROOMS by Marianne Malone, read by Cassandra Campbell
Set in the Thorne Room miniatures at the Chicago Art Institute, this clever story follows friends Ruthie and Jack as they travel back in time. Campbell takes this endearing story to sublime new heights. A great listen for kids 10 and up.
Listen now. Time 2:39
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB
OKAY FOR NOW, by Gary D. Schmidt, read by Lincoln Hoppe
Doug is struggling with an abusive father and trying to figure out who he is. Narrator Hoppe has no trouble finding a voice for this unique hero or accenting the novel’s dark, lyrical tone. A good choice for young adults.
Listen now. Time 2:31
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.5 MB
COMBAT: THE CIVIL WAR by Don Congdon, read by Joe Barrett
Fans of detailed military campaigns will enjoy this collection of primary and secondary sources recounting Civil War battles. Barrett's delivery is the narrative equivalent of thick molasses running out of a jar. Reviewed by Bob Grundfest.
Listen now. Time 2:46
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 2.6 MB
SoundReview support comes from Harper Audio and Hachette Audio.
I'M FEELING LUCKY by Douglas Edwards, read by the author
With a warm, approachable tone and perfect pacing, Edwards narrates his detailed account of his experiences as an early employee of Google, Inc., from the company’s evolution from a two-person enterprise to an international conglomerate. Reviewed by William Giwertz.
Listen now. Time 3:50
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 4.4 MB
THE EMERALD ATLAS by John Stephens, read by Jim Dale
Orphans Kate, Michael, and Emma stumble upon a magical book and embark on a perplexing time-travel adventure. Dale's splendid narration brings vibrancy to this exhilarating new fantasy series. A perfect choice for listeners ages 10 and up.
Listen now. Time 2:33
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 2:33 MB
CHIME by Franny Billingsley, read by Susan Duerden
17-year-old Briony believes she's a witch who has destroyed her twin sister's mind and caused the death of their stepmother. Narrator Duerden's portrayals of the many characters are all pitch-perfect. A great listen for young adults.
Listen to the excerpt now (no download required). Time 2:43
THE EVOLUTION OF BRUNO LITTLEMORE by Benjamin Hale, read by Robert Petkoff
This fictitious memoir is dictated by a neurotic, hyper-intelligent linguist who just happens to be a chimpanzee. Petkoff captures all of Bruno's enthusiasm, smugness, and tenderness.
Listen now. Time 2:42
Download now an excerpt as an mp3 file. Size: 1.6 MB