Until recently, my only thoughts of audiobooks was that they were great for other people. Not me, I had to read the physical book, not even an ebook would do. Since my reading struggles (see Learning to Read…Again) I’ve changed my nonsense tune and now I’ve fallen head over heels for audiobooks. They have helped me rediscover the ability to lose myself in a story, something I had been sorely missing.
Here are my favourites so far:
Invisible life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab read by Julia Whelan.
In 18th-century France, Addie LaRue needed to find a way to escape the life she is supposed to live. As the sun sets, she is praying to any god that will listen to help her be free, she accidentally prays to the gods that answer after dark, which she’s been warned never to do. And they answer. 300 years later Addie walks into a bookstore to find a young man at the counter. Upon her return she realizes he remembers her, the first person to do so in 300 years. This is a beautiful book made only more beautiful by Julia Whelan’s stellar narrative and her soft french accent created for Addie.
We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry read by Isabel Keating
1980s pop culture, the Salem witch trials, a losing field hockey team suddenly imbued with dark, witchy powers, powerful female friendship forged in the crucible of team sport and social ostracization— We Ride Upon Sticks has it all. Not to mention the stunning narrative by Isabel Keating brings each character to life.
Pride by Ibi Zoboi read by Elizabeth Acevedo
“In a timely update of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, National Book Award finalist Ibi Zoboi skillfully balances cultural identity, class, and gentrification against the heady magic of first love in her vibrant reimagining of this beloved classic. A smart, funny, gorgeous retelling starring all characters of colour.”
Read by the wonderful Elizabeth Acevedo, author of Poet X, this book is brought to life in a way that’s new and fresh while still timeless.
Next up on my list is The Midnight Library by Matt Haig read by Carey Mulligan.
Until next time,
Regularly Reads 