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This year’s top audiobooks, selected by LJ’s audio editor and reviewers, represent the best recorded literature published between November 2019 and December 2020. In a year that’s been like no other, these picks moved us, provided escape, and made us think critically and reflect upon the society in which we live. We hope these lists provide a means for readers’ advisory and (socially distanced) conversation.
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Audiobooks have enjoyed major gains in popularity in recent years, as the public has grown increasingly aware of the convenience and pleasure of consuming audio-based content. According to the Audio Publishers Association, U.S. audiobook sales rose 16 percent from 2018 to 2019, continuing an eight-year trend of double-digit growth.
Essential titles reviewed in our July 2020 print issue, spanning mystery & suspense, sf/fantasy, romance, fiction, social sciences, and more.
Each year, the American Library Association’s Listen List Council publishes a list of outstanding audiobooks. The eight librarian experts from this year’s council had many favorites, some of which didn’t make the final list. Below, council members share their top runners-up from the past year.
An intense police procedural, a delightfully inventive journey through Oona's out-of-order life, and Brian Greene's latest exploration of the beginnings and end of our universe earned starred reviews in our June issue.
Essential titles reviewed in our June 2020 print issue, spanning mystery & suspense, sf/fantasy, graphic novels, fiction, social sciences, and more.
The latest audio reviews include a finely voiced literary novel by the inimitable Isabel Allende, a taut thriller set in the 1920s, and an updated edition of the wildly popular Lies My Teacher Told Me.
The latest audio reviews include Joyce Carol Oates's curated collection of crime fiction penned by women writers, Peter Diamandis and Steven Kotler's look at the impact on technology on future industry, and Michael Korda's moving memoir about losing his wife to cancer.
PREMIUM
Black Leopard, Red Wolf
This challenging book rewards listeners willing to commit time and mental energy to contemplating the meaning of truth, the consequences of decisions, and the depths of pain. Unfortunately, the many maps and lists of characters that appear in the print and ebooks are not available here. ["An unglorified if gloriously delivered story that feels eminently real despite the hobgoblins": LJ 2/19 starred review of the Riverhead hc.]
PREMIUM
The Silent Patient
The book is receiving much-deserved buzz, but the audio production and exceptional narration make the characters feel real. ["Dark, edgy, and compulsively readable": LJ 11/1/18 review of the Celadon hc.]
Though written for general consumption, this work will be of value to academics as well.
PREMIUM
The Bird King
An emotional and often melancholy historical fantasy that will appeal to fans of Guy Gavriel Kay and Helene Wecker.
A treat for Lipman followers, this romantic comedy/caper will divert anyone seeking clever but warmhearted fiction (e.g., Cathleen Schine), as well as fans of classic screwball comedies. Ideal for public libraries. ["Funny, warm, sharp, smart, and full of love for family, no matter how flawed": LJ 12/18 review of the Houghton Harcourt hc.]
This story of a life and death fight against an antibiotic-resistant superbug is pertinent to every person on the planet and written to be accessible to a general audience. Both fiction and nonfiction fans will relish this story.
Music fans will be captivated, as will readers of character-driven fiction, not to mention the audience acknowledged in Daisy's Grammy speech—"all of you out there hung up on somebody or something"—that is, most listeners. Enthusiastically recommended. ["For music lovers, romance fans, and anyone who wants to feel invincible with youth, intoxicated by music, and a powerful longing for days gone by": LJ 3/19 review of the Random hc.]
PREMIUM
The Dreamers
This dreamlike novel with sf overtones blends philosophical musings on dreams and the nature of reality with human interest stories that keep listeners riveted. Recommended for readers seeking an unusual and fanciful story told in elegant prose. ["A satisfying, suspenseful page-turner that leaves readers curious about the possibility of dreams": LJ 9/15/18 review of the Random hc.]
Impeccably researched, this compelling historical novel, with its important message about social justice, is essential for fiction collections.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for adventure stories or tales of Wild West history. ["Fans of Dodge City and general readers will find this detail-laden volume appealing": Xpress Reviews 12/21/18 review of the St. Martin's hc.]
Recommended to listeners with an interest in contemporary working conditions and those who enjoyed Barbara Ehrenreich's Nickel and Dimed. ["An illuminating read that should inspire outrage, hope, and change": LJ 12/18 review of the Hachette hc.]
Fans of Kugel's work in the Times or his YouTube channel "Amigo Gringo" or Anthony Bourdain's Parts Unknown, as well as anyone looking for unique travel experiences, will truly enjoy this fun audiobook.
Powerful and poignant, this audiobook is very highly recommended for adult fiction collections. ["Flawlessly translated and exquisitely written, this novel from the winner of the Naguib Mahfouz Prize is a genuine tour de force as well as a thoughtful and provocative examination of what it means to be alive": Xpress Reviews 4/19/19 starred review of the Farrar hc.]
PREMIUM
The Far Field
That breathtaking story—even enhanced by Mathan's empathic reading—turns sucker-punch when Shalini's naïve entitlement and blinding privilege lead the story into devastating predictability. ["Narrating Shalini's journey in chapters that alternate between past and present and utilizing strong characterizations throughout, Vijay has crafted an engaging, suspenseful, and impressive debut": LJ Winter 2018 review of the Grove hc.]
PREMIUM
The Hunting Party
Recommend to listeners who loved Ruth Ware's In a Dark, Dark Wood or other character-driven suspense. ["Agatha Christie fans will shiver as they imagine themselves in snow-covered woods, silence amplifying their fear of not knowing…who might be next to die": LJ Xpress Reviews 1/25/19 review of the Harper hc.]
Highly recommended for all public libraries. ["Although this collaborative project is fairly lengthy, the engaging writing style will appeal to many readers, especially those with a desire to understand better past events as well as readers seeking knowledge about how economists develop forecasts": LJ 10/1/18 starred review of the Penguin hc.]
This book will appeal to animal lovers and is a first-rate addition to library environmental and science collections. In addition, teachers can use this book to stimulate zoological, conservation, and geographical discussions.
PREMIUM
Fire & Blood
Recommended for the most die-hard of "Ice and Fire" fans craving more depth and backstory for the long-running series.
PREMIUM
Watching You
Recommended for the thriller/suspense collection of public libraries. ["Jewell weaves a taut multiperspective, domestic/community suspense story that is sure to please fans of Ruth Ware and A.J. Finn": LJ 11/15/18 starred review of the Atria hc.]
All libraries, both public and academic, should consider. ["Ellis's compelling historical examples and astute analysis will raise questions and ignite debate. This work should be read by academics and general readers alike": LJ 10/1/18 starred review of the Knopf hc.]
Orzel opens the door to a better understanding of the fascinating world of the strange spookiness, the weirdnesses, and the inexplicable paradoxes that make up the quantum world.
This book will appeal to listeners with or without an archaeological background who want to know more about ancient civilizations in North America. Recommended.
History, memoir, and fantastic fiction are among the spring’s standout audiobooks.
Fans of British royalty and that particular kind of historic fiction that is interwoven with a strand of modernity—think Beatriz Williams and others' The Glass Ocean—should consider this novel. ["Historical details about fabric, embroidery, and the royal family are well incorporated into their stories, with light romance rounding out this charming work of historical fiction": LJ 9/15/18 review of the Morrow hc.]
PREMIUM
River Bodies
A solid first in a series. Recommended to fans of CJ Tudor's The Chalk Man. ["An engaging, solid mystery that will captivate lovers of the genre, especially those drawn to regional settings": LJ 11/1/18 review of the Thomas & Mercer hc.]
PREMIUM
Pandemic
The audio is highly recommended, though some longtime fans of the series may be disappointed that the characters are not as likable as they once were. But the autopsy descriptions and forensics are still interesting, the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing is fascinating, and Guidall's narration keeps listener's interest and the plot moving along.
PREMIUM
Someone Like Me
Recommended to all listeners with an interest in speculative fiction. ["A dark, supernatural thriller that blurs the edges of the world we know": LJ 10/15/18 review of the Orbit: Hachette hc.]
A valuable resource for students as well as an entertaining addition to Caine's previous autobiographies What's It All About?? and The Elephant to Hollywood.
PREMIUM
The Punch
Of interest to fans of the author as well as those of well-written, clever, and offbeat familial stories.
PREMIUM
99 Ways To Die
Recommended for mystery/thriller fans, especially those already following the series.
PREMIUM
Cleopatra: I Am Fire and Air
Cleopatra is the classical world's beguiling superstar and is well worth getting to know through a Shakespearian lens. ["Recommended for Shakespeare enthusiasts and readers seeking a deeper understanding of one of his greatest creations": LJ 8/17 review of the Scribner hc.]
Fans of the English Premier League teams and players, along with those interested in how major sports leagues can alter history, will find this a fascinating audiobook.
PREMIUM
Almost Everything: Notes on Hope
Established fans of Lamott's will likely enjoy this work, but the scattershot organization and less than stellar narration may leave others cold.
Recommended where food-based memoirs by authors such as Ruth Reichl, Calvin Trillin, and Laurie Colwin are popular, though the print version will be a better fit for those who want to cook from it rather than just enjoying the essays. ["This warm, humorous, touching, and wonderfully readable book will appeal to food lovers and fans of culinary biographies": LJ Winter 2018 starred review of the Norton hc.]
Rape may be difficult to talk about, but we need to, Abdulali says. Especially when "we raise our children with such unclear standards that they don't have the tools to recognize rape when they see it." ["Guaranteed to become an important part of the canon on gender studies and sexual assault": LJ 12/18 starred review of the New Pr. hc.]
This title is an essential purchase for libraries whose patrons appreciate literary fiction with a touch of the unreal. ["Recommended to readers who enjoy popular or historical fiction with gothic twists as well as fans of the author's other novels": LJ 9/15/18 starred review of the Atria hc.]
A colorful and diverting history of piracy in its heyday; will be of general interest and to pirate buffs. ["A colorful and well-researched study of piracy's glory days, rooted in historical context. Sure to appeal to pirate enthusiasts as well as serious researchers": LJ 8/18 review of the Norton hc.]
PREMIUM
Josephine Baker's Last Dance
Recommended for historical fiction fans and those with an interest in Baker.
PREMIUM
The Dragonglass Bowl
An unexceptional addition to an already bulging collection of fantasy series.
PREMIUM
The Piranhas
May be of interest to fans of Mario Puzo's The Godfather. ["Those who enjoy Mediterranean or Neapolitan noir (Sandrone Dazieri, Massimo Carlotto, Giancarlo de Cataldo) will feel right at home in a world where chaos and vulgarity reign": LJ 8/18 review of the Farrar hc.]
Loaded with suspenseful psychological thrills, comedy, and dark humor, this genre-crossing work will appeal to a wide range of listeners as it is a little bit Maeve Binchy, Dean Koontz, and Lisa Scottoline. ["The story drags a bit in the middle, but the last third is on fire, with intense issues and a roller-coaster plot that will leave readers breathless": LJ 11/15/18 review of the Flatiron: Macmillan hc.]
A superb novel further enhanced by an exemplary reader; a timely acquisition for all libraries. ["With sparse prose and a deft pen, Ackerman writes a profound meditation on the liminal space between our past, present, and future": LJ 9/1/18 starred review of the Knopf hc; 2018 LJ Best Literary Fiction.]
Brilliant and tragic, this is essential for all fiction collections. ["Powerful work for a wide range of readers": LJ 8/18 review of the Houghton Harcourt hc.]
Essential for all libraries supporting business and management curricula. This work will appeal to fans of John Micklethwait and Adrian Wooldridge's The Witch Doctors, David Craig's Rip-off!, and Matthew Stewart's The Management Myth. ["A must-read for tech entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the shifting dynamics of workplace culture": LJ 10/15/18 review of the Hachette hc.]
PREMIUM
This Will Only Hurt a Little
Fans will find much to delight them here. ["Philipps paints a picture of what it's like to be a woman in the world of acting...juggling parenthood and career in a celebrity memoir that stands apart in a crowded field": LJ Xpress Reviews 9/28/18 review of the Touchstone hc.]
Highly recommended for devoted readers of international contemporary fiction. ["Those familiar with the author's inventive writing will certainly devour this, as will readers seeking challenging and thoughtful fiction": LJ 10/15/18 starred review of the Knopf hc.]
This work will appeal to the fans of the servant leadership works of Robert K. Greenleaf, Ken Blanchard, and James C. Hunter.
With immigration policy constantly in the news, Vargas's journey provides an illuminating antidote to inaccurate sociopolitical rhetoric. ["A thought-provoking, moving, and highly personal memoir of Vargas's struggle to belong. Recommended for all readers interested in immigration issues and American identity": LJ 10/15/18 starred review of the Dey Street: HarperCollins hc.]
PREMIUM
Brief Answers to Big Questions
This work is for those interested in cosmology and physics, but because of the popularity of the author it would likely be of interest to a broader audience. Still, the level of attention required means it is not ideal for casual listening.
Recommended for the armchair psychoanalyst in all of us, anyone who believes people are living stories, and those who appreciate works that delve into the psychological experience of love.
PREMIUM
The Escape Artists: A Band of Daredevil Pilots and the Greatest Prison Break of the Great War
Highly recommended to listeners with an interest in the Great War. ["This detailed account will appeal to readers of military and adventure history": LJ 9/15/18 review of the Houghton Harcourt hc.]
PREMIUM
The Reckoning
Highly recommended for fiction collections and especially for Grisham and William Faulkner fans, as well as those who enjoy historical fiction and stories set in the South.
PREMIUM
Where the Crawdads Sing
A selection of Reese Witherspoon's book club, this should be a popular addition for most fiction collections despite its flaws.
This title will fascinate both animal lovers and those interested in animal science.
This thought-provoking work is recommended to fans of Marie Kondo (Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up), those who enjoy self-help books, and anyone who is seeking to renew the spaces in which they live.
PREMIUM
Glam Squad & Groomsmen
This is a short, sweet story about two people who fell in love at the wrong time but get a second chance to see if it can work out. The story is a bit predictable but well written and satisfying.
LJ editors and reviewers and our Fast Scans columnist have chosen the year's best audiobooks and films for those continually popular media collections. One thing is clear: Mr. Rogers is a hit no matter the format.
PREMIUM
Insurrecto
Veteran narrator Justine Eyre gamely and enjoyably relates the vignettes, but only the most diligent listeners and serious experimental fiction fans will have the patience to piece together the hopscotching, though ultimately rewarding, narrative. ["Worthy of a place in collections strong in postcolonial and experimental fiction": LJ 10/15/18 review of the Soho hc.]
PREMIUM
A Spark of Light
Turpin's narration enhances the complex story. Picoult herself presents the author's note in which she relates the history of abortion in America, including many statistics, and concludes with her hopes for the future. ["Excellent for book clubs, this should also be considered for discussions in critical thinking and political debate": LJ 10/1/18 starred review of the Ballantine hc.]
PREMIUM
Becoming
The audiobook may seem daunting with 19 hours of listening, but Obama's narration moves the story quickly as it captivates. Her familiar voice personalizes the story and emotionally draws listeners deeper. The only negative for the audiobook is that it omits the photos in the print version.
PREMIUM
One Day in December
Although the events in this story span all times of the year, the centrality of December and Christmas would make this a nice addition to collections featuring holiday romances. ["Readers who enjoy contemporary romance will root for Laurie and Jack as they work through laughter-through-tears experiences and toward a happily-ever-after worth fighting for": LJ 9/15/18 review of the Crown hc.]
This audio is highly recommended for adult crime collections. Macabre but a lot of fun.—Cliff Glaviano, formerly with Bowling Green State Univ. Libs., OHDavid Faucheux, Lafayette, LAI'm thrilled to honor David Faucheux as the 2018 Audiobook Reviewer of the Year. David has an incredible enthusiasm for a wide range of genres and topics and never ceases to want to learn more and improve his writing. In addition, as LJ's only visually impaired audiobook reviewer, David's feedback on the user experience of various platforms, formats, and recordings is unique and invaluable.
Those who relish learning about the American prison system, especially private prisons, will appreciate this audiobook. Fans of investigative journalism and embedded explorations in dangerous occupations will find this valuable. ["This informative book will surely find many passionate readers": LJ 10/15/18 review of the Penguin hc.]
PREMIUM
Transcription
Recommended for fans of Atkinson, Tana French, and Emily St. John Mandel. ["With a fascinating cast of characters, careful plotting, and lyrical language in turns comical and tragic, Atkinson's complex story carefully unveils the outer demands and inner conflicts that war inflicts": LJ 6/15/18 starred review of the Little, Brown hc.]
Fans of Deng and Bernstein's previous work, the story of the Lost Boys, and of refugees and their incredible courage and willingness to embrace a new culture will find much to ponder.
Dean Gallagher presents this message in a conversational tone that will appeal to a general audience of seekers as well as Christian readers.
Grann's vivid, descriptive writing together with the passionate reading by Will Patton make this an outstanding listen. A modern-day hero dedicated to a goal is much needed in today's society. ["Solidifies Worsley as one of the great leaders and explorers of the modern age who has pushed the limits of human achievement, while also providing a fresh narrative of Shackleton's accomplishments": LJ 11/15/18 review of the Doubleday hc.]
PREMIUM
Impossible Owls
Recommended for fans of NPR's Driveway Moments, short-form history, and highbrow periodicals. ["Phillips's essays are not only fascinating and thoroughly researched but written in a distinctive voice that conveys humor, awareness, and vulnerability": LJ 7/18 review of the Farrar hc.]
PREMIUM
When We Were Young
Fans of Christian fiction espousing traditional values will appreciate both the artfulness of Kingsbury's nod to A Christmas Carol and her advocacy for nurturing faith and marriage. Plan to purchase this latest entry in the popular "Baxter Family" series, which also stands alone, for Kingsbury's legions of followers.
The suspense builds to an almost unbearable crescendo with a wholly satisfying and upsetting denouement, all flawlessly rendered by Hewitt. McPherson has created a truly haunting version of a revenge thriller that will be appreciated by any mystery reader. ["McPherson's deliciously gothic country house mystery with a contemporary twist is devious and suspenseful and keeps readers guessing to the shocking end": LJ 8/18 starred review of the Minotaur: St. Martin's hc.]
PREMIUM
The Lost Carousel of Provence
There's something for everyone: history, romance, and a touch of mystery. ["Highlighting various perspectives throughout the last century…Blackwell successfully crafts multiple mysteries in several time periods, all surrounding one family": LJ 8/18 review of the Berkley hc.]
PREMIUM
Firefly
Recommended to listeners interested in fiction based on true events. ["Naji's and Samson's interlaced histories will appeal to readers who enjoy thrillers enriched with social and political issues and driven by suspenseful episodes of flight and pursuit": LJ 7/18 review of the Mysterious hc.]
An excellent addition to most library collections. ["Highly recommended for all readers interested in Alcott and her masterpiece's legacy": LJ 8/18 starred review of the Norton hc.]
An essential listen for spy genre fans and anyone interested in the Cold War. ["Fans of narrative nonfiction, the Cold War, spy stories...and Macintyre's previous works will greatly enjoy this incredible true account": LJ 9/1/18 starred review of the Crown hc.]
PREMIUM
An Absolutely Remarkable Thing
An audiobook you'll want to listen to in one sitting; recommended for all collections. ["Led by an earnestly flawed, bisexual heroine with direction and commitment issues, coupled with an abundant generosity of spirit, this read is timely and sorely needed": LJ 7/18 starred review of the Dutton hc.]
A realistic look into the lives of military personnel who lived in constant fear of being killed. Highly recommended for all libraries. ["Recommended for readers interested in the final days of World War II, particularly naval activity in the Pacific theater": LJ 6/15/18 review of the S. & S. hc.]
PREMIUM
Playing with Matches
Recommended for large public libraries and for leisure collections in university libraries. ["With an ending twist that will hit readers like a splash of vodka and tonic in the face of their blind date, this novel is one to pack in your beach bag": LJ 6/1/18 review of the Touchstone hc.]
A worthy edition to most audio collections. Give this to mystery and horror lovers ready for a challenge and open to an innovative plot construction. ["Turton's debut is skillfully done. He expertly manages the many moving parts...while taking readers ever deeper into the story": LJ 7/18 starred review of the Sourcebooks Landmark hc.]
PREMIUM
The Mandela Plot
Highly recommended for all public libraries. ["At times, this story reads like a YA adventure novel, with many brawls, harrowing escapes, outrageous plot twists, and some graphic violence. Martin's voice, replete with South African and Yiddish slang (a helpful glossary is included), rings authentic": LJ 4/15/18 review of the Houghton Harcourt hc.]—Ilka Gordon, Beachwood, OH
PREMIUM
The Body's Question
Read by the poet, this collection speaks clearly and forcefully with an original and compelling voice. Highly recommended. ["This is a rewarding book for any reader": LJ 9/15/03 review of the Graywolf hc.]—Wendy Galgan, St. Joseph's Coll., Standish, ME
This thrilling title should have wide appeal, especially to those interested in gender equality, history, and aviation. ["Highly recommended for readers with an interest in aviation history, women's history, cultural history, and 20th-century history": LJ 6/15/18 starred review of the Houghton Harcourt hc.]—Beth Farrell, Cleveland State Univ. Law Lib.
Highly recommended for all public libraries.—Gretchen Pruett, New Braunfels P.L., TX
Burton's nuanced, lively inflection and pacing keep listeners' attention and many will come away from the production with a new personal hero in Mr. Rogers. Highly recommended for all collections. ["Grown-up fans, pop culture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the history of educational television and child development will be inspired. An excellent and timely addition to most collections": LJ 8/18 starred review of the Abrams hc.]—B. Allison Gray, Goleta P.L., CA
Recommended for biography fans interested in a gossipy look at Venetian society and three of its most unconventional personalities. ["This work skillfully weaves historical details into absorbing biographical profiles while also capturing the charm of Venice": LJ 9/1/17 review of the Thames & Hudson hc.]—Nancy R. Ives, SUNY at Geneseo
PREMIUM
Has Anyone Seen the President?
A conversation starter and useful for government/current events teachers; also recommended for public libraries.—Patricia Ann Owens, formerly with Illinois Eastern Community Coll., Mt. Carmel
If recent events have got you down, Solnit's latest essays will lift you up.—Gladys Alcedo, Wallingford CT
PREMIUM
21 Lessons for the 21st Century
If you cherish the life of ideas you owe yourself some time with this audiobook. ["Readers of Harari's previous works will find this volume uniquely engaging in its application of those larger contours of history and future to contemporary society. Highly recommended for general readers and academics alike": LJ 9/1/18 review of the Spiegel & Grau hc.]—Denis Frias, Mississauga Lib. Syst., Ont.
PREMIUM
Black Swan Rising
Listeners will enjoy this story of smart, capable women standing up for themselves. It's thrilling, suspenseful, and thought provoking. Highly recommended.—Judy Murray, Monroe Cty. Lib. Syst., Temperance, MI
PREMIUM
The Homecoming
Fans of English village fiction and love stories will relish this well-written title.—Denise Garofalo, Mount Saint Mary Coll. Lib., Newburgh, NY
PREMIUM
A Death in Eden
Despite the title's shortcomings, this may be enjoyed by some fans of mysteries that take place in natural settings. ["Fans of C.J. Box and Craig Johnson will relish this page-turner": LJ Xpress Reviews 5/25/18 review of the Viking hc.]—I. Pour-El, Des Moines Area Technical Coll., Boone, IA
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