Top 10 Audiobooks To Start Listening Before 2023 Ends

Are you still wondering if you should give audiobooks a try? Here’s your cue. Pick any of these ten audiobooks before 2023 ends.

Let’s take a stroll through the audiobook timeline, starting in the late 1800s with the birth of the phonograph. Vinyl records kicked things off, especially tailored for those with visual challenges. Fast forward to cassette tapes and CDs, bringing audiobooks to the pockets of every listener. Then, the late 20th-century digital revolution arrived, making MP3s the new cool kids. Now, in the 21st century, audiobooks are everywhere, thanks to streaming, podcasts, and our trusty smartphones. Why the hype? Well, think of audiobooks as the multitasking masterminds. Plus, they’re like a live performance of your favorite novel, with narrators adding an extra layer of magic. And for language learners, audiobooks are the unsung heroes. In a nutshell, audiobooks aren’t just stories you listen to – they’re convenient, versatile, and enriching companions making literature a seamless part of our lives.

Various audiobook platforms like Audible, an Amazon subsidiary, lead the industry with a vast selection and subscription-based model. Librivox offers free audiobooks of public domain works through volunteer efforts, fostering global accessibility. Audiobooks.com and Scribd provide diverse content subscriptions, while Spotify and Apple Podcasts serve as versatile platforms for spoken-word content. Digital library services like OverDrive and Libby extend audiobook access through public libraries. Each platform contributes uniquely to the evolving landscape, offering varied content, accessibility, and user-friendly experiences, collectively shaping the widespread appeal and convenience of audiobooks in the digital era. Here are the top 10 original audiobooks to start listening to before 2023 ends.

Normal People by Sally Rooney

The audiobook adaptation of Normal People by Sally Rooney, meticulously narrated by Aoife McMahon, constitutes a noteworthy achievement in auditory storytelling. Released in 2018, this rendition stands as a paradigm of excellence, with McMahon’s nuanced delivery imbuing vitality into Rooney’s characters. McMahon’s adept narration demonstrates a keen ability to capture the intricate facets of the evolving relationship between Connell and Marianne with exceptional sensitivity.

Accessible on diverse platforms, including the widely recognized Audible, the audiobook not only serves as a testament to McMahon’s proficiency but also accentuates the emotional subtleties interwoven within the broader themes of friendship and love in Rooney’s narrative. The critical acclaim garnered upon its release solidifies the audiobook’s status as an accessible and captivating exploration into the multifaceted dynamics of human connection, affording listeners an immersive and enriching literary experience.

Also, Read: ‘Normal People’ is Toxicity wrapped in Western Melancholy, cleverly disguised as an absorbing story

Sandman by Neil Gaiman 

Narrated by the acclaimed author Neil Gaiman himself, the audiobook adaptation of The Sandman stands as an exemplary literary achievement. Gaiman’s narration, characterized by enchanting expertise, exhibits a rich cadence and a profound understanding of the source material, elevating the mythical world within the narrative to a vivid and immersive realm. As the creative architect behind The Sandman graphic novel series, Gaiman’s direct involvement in the narration adds an authentic and captivating allure to the characters and their cosmic tales. First published in 2020, this audiobook rendition serves as a testament to Gaiman’s storytelling prowess, providing audiences with an intimate and genuine encounter with his visionary universe.

Accessible across diverse platforms, with Audible being among the prominent options, Gaiman’s narration serves as a conduit, meticulously preserving and presenting the essence of The Sandman in a manner that captivates and engrosses listeners. More than a mere rendition, this audiobook embodies a personal and authentic journey into the intricacies of Gaiman’s narrative, allowing audiences to engage with his visionary universe at their convenience. Consequently, this audiobook emerges as an essential auditory experience for enthusiasts of Neil Gaiman’s iconic literary contributions.

Circe by Madeline Miller

Embarking on the audiobook journey of Madeline Miller’s Circe, narrated by the incredibly talented Perdita Weeks, is nothing short of a magical odyssey through mythology. Weeks brings Circe’s character to life with a touch of grace and eloquence that’s truly exceptional. With each word, she skillfully unravels the intricacies of Miller’s prose, infusing every moment with genuine emotion and authenticity. As the story unfolds, you can’t help but be drawn into Circe’s world, thanks to Weeks’ captivating performance.

Originally published in 2018, the audiobook version retains all the timeless allure of Miller’s brilliant work while adding a dynamic auditory dimension. Weeks’ narration, characterized by impeccable timing and expressive delivery, takes the storytelling to new heights, making it an experience to remember. Whether you’re tuning in on Audible or other platforms, Weeks ensures that the enchanting journey of “Circe” is at your fingertips, offering flexibility across various devices. 

Becoming by Michelle Obama 

The audiobook iteration of Becoming by Michelle Obama is personally narrated by the esteemed author herself. This memoir, published on November 13, 2018, intertwines the various facets of Michelle Obama’s life – from her upbringing on Chicago’s South Side to her roles as both a mother and a professional, and ultimately, her experiences at the pinnacle of political influence.

With a runtime extending to 19 hours and 3 minutes, Obama candidly shares her journey, encompassing triumphs and tribulations, in a narrative characterized by sincerity and humor. The audiobook is readily available on platforms such as Audible, Amazon, Google Play Books, and Apple Books, offering audiences a captivating exploration of Michelle Obama’s life story.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

In the audiobook realm of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, the narrative is brought to vivid life by the talented Julia Whelan. Her narration is nothing short of a masterpiece, skillfully capturing the nuances of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s complex characters and their enthralling stories. Whelan’s voice weaves seamlessly through the layers of Evelyn Hugo’s tumultuous life, bringing authenticity and depth to each emotional twist and turn.

First gracing listeners with its presence in 2017, the audiobook version of this captivating tale has retained its allure over time. Julia Whelan’s performance elevates the storytelling, creating an immersive experience that lingers in the minds of those who embark on this journey. Whether on Audible or other platforms, the audiobook provides a flexible and accessible means to dive into the glamorous and intricate world of Evelyn Hugo. For those seeking a riveting story paired with an exceptional narrator, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo in audiobook format is an absolute gem that promises a truly enchanting listening experience.

The Institute by Stephen King 

Santino Fontana takes the reins as the captivating narrator of Stephen King’s The Institute audiobook, delivering a performance that is nothing short of a literary tour de force. Fontana’s mastery brings King’s chilling and suspense-laden world to life with unparalleled skill. His ability to embody characters and ratchet up the tension in every narrative twist adds an extra layer of intensity to this gripping tale.

Unveiled to eager listeners in 2019, the audiobook adaptation of The Institute seamlessly preserves the timeless appeal of King’s storytelling. Fontana’s expert narration serves as a powerful enhancer, immersing audiences in a standout experience tailored for enthusiasts of horror and psychological suspense. Available on platforms like Audible and others, the audiobook provides a convenient and enthralling entry into the sinister and mysterious universe crafted by King.

Related to Stephen King: The Best Works of Stephen King and Here’s Why You Should Read Them  

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman 

In the vast landscape of audiobooks, the entrancing tale of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine comes to life, meticulously shaped by the skilled narrator, Cathleen McCarron. McCarron’s rendition is nothing short of a literary triumph, showcasing an extraordinary talent for infusing Gail Honeyman’s multifaceted protagonist with a delicate and empathetic touch. Her narration adeptly navigates the emotional intricacies of Eleanor’s odyssey, elevating the audiobook into an unforgettable and deeply resonant experience.

Making its literary debut in 2017, the audiobook adaptation of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine has stood the test of time, maintaining its enduring allure. McCarron’s expertise as a narrator acts as an indispensable guide, intensifying the immersive nature of the narrative and ensuring that Eleanor’s peculiarities and triumphs echo with profound significance. Accessible on platforms like Audible, this audiobook invites listeners to seamlessly immerse themselves in the intricately woven world of Eleanor. 

Beartown by Fredrik Backman  

The audiobook presentation of Beartown by Fredrik Backman is expertly narrated by Marin Ireland, boasting a runtime of 13 hours and 25 minutes. This novel, penned by Swedish writer Backman, found its literary debut in 2017 through Simon & Schuster Audio. Set against the backdrop of the small Swedish town of Beartown, where ice hockey holds paramount significance, the narrative unfolds a poignant tale. It traces the events culminating in the sexual assault of a 15-year-old girl by a prominent junior hockey player, exploring the ensuing ramifications on players, their families, friends, and a community deeply rooted in its hockey heritage.

Acknowledged by AudioFile Magazine with an Earphones Award, Marin Ireland’s narration stands out for its remarkable quality. Ireland’s adept utilization of her versatile voice breathes life into the characters, effectively encapsulating the narrative essence. Her performance, as noted, is a catalyst for the story’s vivid manifestation, contributing to its prominence. Available on various platforms including Audible, Google Play Books, Scribd, and Amazon, the audiobook version of “Beartown” offers a compelling auditory journey, skillfully combining Backman’s narrative and Ireland’s stellar narration.

The Martian by Andy Weir

The audiobook rendition of The Martian by Andy Weir, skillfully narrated by R.C. Bray, delivers a riveting experience that promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Bray’s deep, gravelly voice impeccably suits the first-person narrative of Mark Watney, portraying the gripping account of Watney’s struggle for survival on the desolate landscape of Mars, abandoned by his crew. With a duration of 10 hours and 53 minutes, Bray’s narration contributes to the immersive intensity of the audiobook.

Published by Podium Publishing on March 22nd, 2013, The Martian audiobook is readily available on prominent platforms, including Audible and Amazon. Its accessibility on these platforms enhances the reach of the audiobook, providing a convenient avenue for enthusiasts of science fiction, action, and adventure to engage with the compelling narrative.

The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling 

The audiobook rendition of the iconic Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling stands as an essential experience for aficionados of the wizarding world. Narrated by the acclaimed Jim Dale, whose voice becomes a conduit to breathe life into the magical realm of Hogwarts, this audiobook is a testament to the power of auditory storytelling. Published by Penguin Random House, this immersive journey through the entire series is accessible on both Audible and Amazon platforms, ensuring a wide reach for eager listeners.

Dale’s narration is not merely a reading; it’s a masterful performance that adds an extra layer of enchantment to Rowling’s already captivating narrative. The audiobook serves as a transformative way to rediscover the beloved tale of Harry Potter, offering an engaging and captivating experience that allows listeners to get lost in the magical nuances of Hogwarts. For devoted fans and those seeking a fresh perspective on the series, Jim Dale’s rendition makes the audiobook an enticing and worthwhile exploration of the enchanting universe crafted by J.K. Rowling.

Related to Audiobooks: Audiobooks and Productivity: Maximising Reading Time in a Busy World