Terry Hong

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.

Translated novels first written in French, Farsi, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean comprise the best world literature published in 2020.

Meet Vikas Adam, Priya Ayyar, Ewan Chung, and Greta Jung—Asian American narrators at various stages of their performance careers, from hundreds of credits (Adam) to not yet quite a dozen (Chung). Each is proof that authentic representation truly matters—linguistic credibility, cultural awareness, and nuanced accuracy—as they embody titles from around the world to create the best possible literary experience for discerning, eager listeners. 

Tales from Iceland, Spain, China, Syria, and around the globe. The best world literature translated into English and published in 2019.