For Readers: Blog

Books You Have to Hear

We like to think there’s a book for every reader, but sometimes an extra something is needed to really connect the reader to the book. Audiobooks add dimension to the written word: Fiction or nonfiction, solo narrator or a cast of famous voices, theatrical or approachable...there are lots of options in this format.

During June, National Audiobook Month, we encourage you to give the narrated book a try; you may become a fan! It might take trial and error to zero in on which genre works for you in audio or which narration style you prefer. Whether you’re in it for the long haul or you just want a quick listen to help you breeze through the chores, you’ll find plenty to love in these recommendations. We’ve sorted our picks from the shortest to the longest listens, so you can find what works for the time that you have.

The Deep by Rivers Solomon immerses you in a complex underwater world. This poignant novella follows the historian in a community of ocean-dwelling people who are descended from the captives thrown overboard during the transatlantic slave trade. Solomon was inspired by a song by the musical group Clipping, which includes Daveed Diggs of Hamilton fame. Diggs narrates the audiobook and his musicality is a perfect fit for the lyrical nature of Solomon's story. [4 hours]

My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite is a satirical and darkly funny tale about how much we are willing to do to take care of our family, despite some very complicated relationships. Short chapters make this a good audiobook companion for busy schedules. While this book is popular in any format with library staff, the audiobook narrator Adepero Oduye is spot-on with her portrayals of the sarcastic and smart family drama, making this a thriller unlike any you’ve heard before. [4.25 hours] 

Neil Gaiman’s Norse Mythology is full of his trademark wit and conversational style, lending a modern touch to the familiar characters of centuries-old mythology. Narrated by Gaiman himself, this award-winning audiobook is a tribute to the oral tradition of myths, and allows you to visit with Thor, Loki, and more in standalone chapters that read like short stories. [6.5 hours]

If you’re looking for the audiobook equivalent of a comfy sweater, look no further than The Good Neighbor by Maxwell King. This is the definitive portrait of Fred Rogers and his genuine passion for early childhood  education and being a good neighbor. To make things even better, the story of this public television legend is told by another; LeVar Burton provides the award-winning narration. [10 hours]

Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert is an enemies-to-lovers rom-com that is equal parts charming and steamy (you might want headphones for this one!). A near-death experience motivates Chloe Brown to create a list of ways to change her life. She forms an unlikely alliance with the gruff building superintendent and, as the pair work through her list, Chloe begins to see beyond his rough exterior. The British accents in this audiobook make you feel like you’re joining the duo on their journey. [10.25 hours]

Angie Kim’s debut Miracle Creek brilliantly brings together the kind of family secrets you find in a book by Celeste Ng or Liane Moriarty and the courtroom drama of something by Scott Turow or William Landay. When a controversial medical treatment in a small town ends in a tragedy, the blame is passed from character to character. This book shines on audio, as you listen to each character reckon with their own truths about parenting, the immigrant experience, and justice. [14 hours]

Want to lose yourself in another world? The City of Brass by S. A. Chakraborty is the first in an epic fantasy trilogy set in 18th-century Cairo. Drawing from Middle Eastern folklore, Chakraborty has created a world full of djinn warriors, fire creatures, and a legendary city of brass that is known for its equally dangerous magic and court politics. The detail and world-building in this story are astounding, and you can’t help but feel this must be a real place. The narration puts you in the shoes of the human con artist at the center of the story as she tries to make sense of this fantastical city. [19.5 hours]

—Laura