Earlier this summer, June marked Audiobook Month, giving us the chance to reflect on some of the standout audiobooks we’ve come to enjoy, connect with and feel inspired by, as well as those that have helped us through the more mundane activities in life, such as chores! From memoirs and classics to poetry, sci-fi and thrillers, we wanted to highlight six of our favourite audiobooks that we think are worth a listen for any occasion.
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates (Jadyn’s Recommendation)
One of the few books I might ever say works better as an audiobook. Ta-Nehisi Coates delivers this profound epistolary memoir like poetry, with power, intention and lyricism in every word. This book acts as a recollection and reflection on the experiences of Blackness and masculinity in America. The dissonance between the subject matter and the beautiful reading makes for a heart-wrenching and immersive understanding of the complex reality of modern-day America. Ta-Nehisi Coates is insightful and delicate in his discussion of a harsh world. Though quite a quick listen, the text and its meaning linger in a way we should all pay attention to.
Giving Up the Ghost by Hilary Mantel (Nina’s Recommendation)
Hilary Mantel’s Giving Up the Ghost offers a raw and honest reflection on her struggles with misdiagnosed illnesses and the lasting impact they had on her life. Throughout the memoir, imagination and writing become a form of respite, offering another layer to Mantel’s deeply personal reflections.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (Alice’s Recommendation)
One of Jane Austen’s most beloved novels, Pride and Prejudice follows the romance between the witty and wild Elizabeth Bennet and the stoic and formidable Mr Darcy. Read by none other than Ms Rosamund Pike herself, who played Jane Bennet in the 2005 adaptation of the novel, Pike perfectly captures Austen’s signature satire and tone. I highly recommend this audiobook to those who struggle to read Austen due to the 19th-century language and format. Following along with Pike’s beautiful performance really helped me grasp the subtle details I had often overlooked.
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo (Olivia’s Recommendation)
This story is perfect for the audiobook format as it is told through verse poetry, so the audio medium really heightens the experience. It also reflects the plot of the titular character being a spoken-word poet, finding her place in the world while navigating relationships, growing up, discovering her identity and learning to be true to herself.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (Ananda’s Recommendation)
This book really lends itself to being an audiobook as it is both suspenseful and heart-warming. Through the atmosphere created in space, Weir is able to explore themes of friendship, loneliness and purpose. The characters feel real, three-dimensional and deeply relatable, creating a fabulous listening experience!
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden (Olivia’s Recommendation)
Although it may be a teensy bit predictable, this was such a fun and suspenseful thriller that I kept finding chores to do just so I could listen to it. I even ended up doing a workout whilst finishing the book, which was an experience! It definitely is a fun one to get you out of a reading slump, or if you just want to try something different from what you usually read without jumping straight into the deep end.
We hope you enjoyed our recommendations and found an audiobook that intrigues you, whether you’re looking for your next great read or simply something to make those mundane chores a little more enjoyable!
