We get it, sometimes reading books isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But, who doesn’t love a good story? Thankfully, there is a cool thing called audiobooks. Some of the best can have such an immersive and stimulating quality that they can transport listeners to a whole other world. With the right narrator paired with the right story, it can create a life-changing listening experience!
Whether you are just not an avid reader, or you are a longtime audiobook listener, this list will surely make you fall in love with listening to stories being told through immersive sounds.
Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders
This audiobook is made up of a cast of 166 narrators. Yes, you read that right. Some of the narrators are put into this audiobook to mimic ambient sounds; such as animal noises. Obviously, because of the talent incorporated into this audiobook, it is one of the most popular to date. This audiobook isn’t like any reading, it is a whole show wrapped up into an audio file.
Listen to a sample here!
Educated by Tara Westover
Westover’s memoir is about trauma, resilience, and the power of knowledge. This audiobook won an Earphones Award because of narrator Julia Whelan’s emotional reading and inflections.
Listen to a sample here!
How the Word is Passed by Clint Smith
This story takes you on a tour of monuments, guiding you through an in-depth history of each and every one. This particularly emphasizes their history during slavery in America. Smith narrates his own story and goes in-depth in his research. This audiobook is unforgettable and deeply contemplative as it shows how history is hidden in plain sight.
Listen to a sample here!
The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green
What many don’t know about John Green is that he is a recognized historian. In this audiobook, he reads many of his essays, sharing his knowledge on all things relating to humanity.
Listen to a sample here!
Atomic Habits by James Clear
You don’t need big changes to see big results. This is the mantra of Clear’s Atomic Habits. The author narrates his own stories on how the littlest changes create the most remarkable results. This is something incredibly empowering to listen to, and it is perfect to put on in the background if you are having not the best week.
Listen to a sample here!
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