Behind the Mic With Kirkus Reviews

Narrator Kim Fields pulls out all the stops portraying a sophisticated young jazz trumpeter and the many gnarly characters she meets in the urban jazz scene. Didi Herron is crisscrossing the country, looking for a tape of her father’s last jazz performance. The versatile Fields captures the heroine’s longing and determination, as well as the edgy dynamics of African-American jazz culture. It’s a story that reveals the challenges of making it in the music business, but the novel’s hook is the heroine’s quest, not only for the sound of her father playing his last gig but also for the piece of her musical soul that went missing when he died in a car crash in his mid-20s, just after that performance. This is a must-hear audiobook. Published by Punch Audio. Find the review of NOW'S THE TIME at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. HarperCollins Leadership feed your inner drive to grow as a leader, with audiobooks that activate the leadership potential inside everyone. Learn more at www.harpercollinsleadership.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a listen for anyone who's married, divorced, dating, and/or cares about women. It’s an outstanding audiobook delivered by an exceptional narrator, Allyson Ryan. By now, many have heard the buzz about this novel. Believe the hype. It's ostensibly about a recently divorced New York City doctor, but really it’s about the challenges women face in relationships—in working, in parenting, and in partnering during a time when women are told they can (and should) have it all while also being expected to be all things to all people. Ryan's performance is spot-on throughout. She captures the essence of each character and never misses a beat in expressing the author's insights into life as a woman in the 21st century. Published by Random House Audio. Find the review of FLEISHMAN IS IN TROUBLE at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. HarperCollins Leadership feed your inner drive to grow as a leader, with audiobooks that activate the leadership potential inside everyone. Learn more at www.harpercollinsleadership.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Bittner and Peter Ganim shepherd listeners through the apocalyptic world Formerly Known As the USA. Bittner narrates as Truckee Wallace, a 16-year-old orphan who finds himself in the middle of an international incident. Ganim chimes in as the future editor of Trukee's memoir. Bittner gets to shout and go wild as Truckee, in addition to voicing a talking goat, an android, and multiple characters from all walks of life. As the voice of reason, Ganim reads footnotes and makes corrections to Truckee's story. While Bittner clearly gets to do the heavy lifting, it is Ganim's deadpan delivery that brings the most laughs to this inventive retelling of THE WIZARD OF OZ. Published by Macmillan Audio. Find the review of FKA USA at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. HarperCollins Leadership feed your inner drive to grow as a leader, with audiobooks that activate the leadership potential inside everyone. Learn more at www.harpercollinsleadership.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CJ Katsuyama has grown up hearing that “Katsuyamas never quit,” though she somehow always finds a way to disappoint her mother, a driven business executive. Joy Osmanski nails all the authentic emotions, especially 17-year-old CJ’s sarcasm and growing confidence. When CJ’s mother sells her family’s flower shop to the McAllisters, the same family who exploited her grandparents when they were sent to WWII internment camps, CJ finds a passion for activism. Perfect for fans of Sugiura’s first book IT’S NOT LIKE IT’S A SECRET or listeners looking for stories about speaking out against injustice. Published by Harper Audio. Read the full review of THIS TIME WILL BE DIFFERENT at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. HarperCollins Leadership feed your inner drive to grow as a leader, with audiobooks that activate the leadership potential inside everyone. Learn more at www.harpercollinsleadership.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Red and Blue are two agents fighting in a war through time — which makes them the unlikeliest of pen pals. Red, voiced by Cynthia Farrell, sneers as she sees her foe across a burning field. Her attempt at altering the future was foiled by Blue, cooly voiced by Emily Woo Zeller. When they start a cryptic correspondence as they sabotage each other’s missions, neither of them expects to fall in love. Listen, then listen again to unravel this intricate story co-written by two award-winning sci-fi authors. Published by Simon & Schuster Audio. Read the full review of THIS IS HOW YOU LOSE THE TIME WAR at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. HarperCollins Leadership feed your inner drive to grow as a leader, with audiobooks that activate the leadership potential inside everyone. Learn more at www.harpercollinsleadership.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Crickets and a crackling campfire greet listeners at the start of this children’s audiobook centered around otsaliheliga, “we are grateful.” Cherokee pronunciations and vocabulary are beautifully rendered for listeners as five narrators take turns telling the story of families celebrating and honoring ancestors throughout the year. Listening to the audiobook with the picture book is ideal to appreciate this charming and important work which will appeal to young listeners. Published by Live Oak Media. Read the full review of WE ARE GRATEFUL: OTSALIHELIGA at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Known for her Africanfuturist fiction, Okorafor narrates a new memoir about the roots of her celebrated stories. She was a skilled athlete when she went into the hospital for spinal surgery to correct her scoliosis, but when she woke up, she discovered she was paralysed from the waist down. When her body broke, she discovered a passion and skill for writing about creative and fantastical worlds. Published by Simon & Schuster Audio. Read the full review of BROKEN PLACES & OUTER SPACES at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD returns with a tale of America’s buried legacy of racism and violence. Elwood Curtis is an earnest high school student on his way to college classes when he’s picked up for hitching a ride in the wrong car. Elwood’s ideals are confronted by the harsh realities of Nickel Academy, the segregated reform school where he’s a “student.” JD Jackson’s deep, gravelly voice captures the haunting atmosphere of Whitehead’s novel inspired by true events. Published by Random House Audio. Read the full review of THE NICKEL BOYS at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The story of two sisters who grew up in a Jewish household in Detroit takes us through the 1950s and up to 2016. The sisters’ paths are very different, but their shared experiences and relationship create an engaging tale that makes you feel their similarities more than their differences. In a great example of the dual voice performance, narrators Malone and Graynor narrate alternating chapters, bringing to life the sisters’ reflections with clear expression of their emotions. This long, lush story makes us think about how women move through all the challenges in their lives. Published by Simon & Schuster Audio. Read the full review of MRS. EVERYTHING at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine publisher Michele Cobb. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A scholarship student has trouble connecting with her rich female classmates, until—against her better judgment—she agrees to attend one of their parties. Falling down a rabbit hole, Samantha finds herself entangled in the lives of a group of women who call each other "Bunny." Narrator Sophie Amoss get an Earphones Award for her animated performance—she enhances the emotional punch of this genre-bending story for anyone who has ever felt out of place amongst people whose interests feel both alien and shallow. Published by Penguin Audio. Read the full review of BUNNY at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine publisher Michele Cobb. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After their company's CEO suddenly dies, four women are determined to make sure that a man known to sexually harass women isn't chosen for the position. Illuminating the feminine strength of the story’s "Me Too" message, narrator Almarie Guerra projects just the Southern accent and sassy tone needed. The narrator’s skill and energy ease this intense listen about women who triumph over injustice in the workplace. Published by Macmillan Audio. Read the full review of WHISPER NETWORK at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine publisher Michele Cobb. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you are a true crime podcast fan, you’ve probably listened to MY FAVORITE MURDER, which combines crime with a surprising amount of fun and laughs. In the dual memoir. the hosts have a lot to say, including a section recorded before a live audience. Kilgariff and Hardstark reflect on the life experiences that shaped them as women, led them to meet each other, and, ultimately, inspired them to create the hit podcast. Actor and special audio guest Paul Giamatti offers wise quips. Published by Macmillan Audio. Read the full review of STAY SEXY & DON'T GET MURDERED at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine publisher Michele Cobb. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Life as Anna knows it is well and truly over. She is betrayed by her best friend, who runs off with her husband and her children. Her solace is a true crime podcast —and then it triggers a surprising connection to her past life. Cathleen McCarron’s Scottish lilt is smooth and beautifully captures the darkly funny suspense. Published by Hachette Audio. Read the full review of CONVICTION at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine publisher Michele Cobb. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast host Holmes’s debut novel is the story of a widow who doesn’t miss her husband and how she builds a new life with a baseball pitcher who has lost his skill. Narrator Julia Whelan warmly explores changing relationships in this ideal summer listen. Published by Random House Audio. Read the full review of EVVIE DRAKE STARTS OVER at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Epstein, a journalist who has written widely on performance science, wants to prove his thesis—Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World. His ideas get a passionate delivery with narrator Will Damron as he encourages broad learning, contrasting this with deep learning and super-focused skill building. He uses anecdotes and superstar examples—Roger Federer, Leonardo DaVinci, Vincent Van Gogh, and more, including musicians and Nobel Laureates. Published by Penguin Audio. Read the full review of RANGE at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first Transcontinental Railroad was an amazing feat of planning and building. Thousands of Chinese immigrants building the western section of the link faced discrimination, daunting work conditions, and other dangers. This serious history shines a spotlight on the role of the “Railroad Chinese” in the building of modern America. Published by HighBridge Audio. Read the full review of GHOSTS OF GOLD MOUNTAIN at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In six classic Greek myths retold, listeners encounter characters both famous (Odysseus, Icarus) and lesser known (Queen Lamia, Bellerophon). Derek Perkins deftly narrates these tales with a keen sense of storytelling—vivid and lively with a grand sense of drama and action. He’s equally adept at the “explained” parts—short essay after each tale with an overview of the myth. Listeners are reminded why the myths have endured through centuries of tellings and retellings. Published by Tantor Audio. Read the full review of GREEK MYTHOLOGY EXPLAINED at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fans of Kate Atkinson’s private detective Jackson Brodie will love his 5th outing with the audiobook narrated by Jason Isaacs, who plays Brodie in the BBC series “Case Histories.” Isaacs knows all the characters well and conveys a sense of easy familiarity in his narration. Brodie investigates the grim crimes of human trafficking and child abuse, but Atkinson’s keen plotting and wry humor keep listeners fully engaged and lightens the dark topic. Some of the hapless secondary characters get clever vocal portraits. Published by Hachette Audio. Read the full review of BIG SKY at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Revisit the classic WWII novel by Joseph Heller. Jay O. Sanders brings a friendly, earnest tone to a production that features a large cast of characters presided over by a paranoid and put-upon bombardier, Captain Yossarian. It’s an absurdist romp through the machinations of governmental bureaucracy. Published by Harper Audio. Read the full review of CATCH-22 at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A nuanced and masterful performance of a harrowing audiobook. Winner of an AudioFile Earphones award, Jacques Roy narrates Higginbotham’s recounting of the 1986 Russian nuclear disaster at Chernobyl. A compelling listen that’s perfect for those fascinated by the HBO miniseries CHERNOBYL. Published by Simon & Schuster. Read the full review of MIDNIGHT IN CHERNOBYL at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Craig Wasson mans the mic like a jazz poet in this second installment of Ellroy’s L.A. WWII trilogy that began with PERFIDIA. The audiobook sizzles with the slang and accents of wartime Los Angeles in a story full of murder, missing gold, and fire set against a backdrop of war and racist paranoia. Wasson delivers Ellroy’s lyricism while also presenting the harsh language of humanity's underbelly. Published by Random House Audio. Read the full review of THIS STORM at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Golden Voice narrator Bahni Turpin engages the listener with a complex biography of two luminaries of the Harlem Renaissance. Explore the friendship and collaboration of writers Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes in the 1920s and 1930s. Turpin’s narrative skills stand out in passages in which she gives voice to the boisterous Hurston and mercurial Hughes. Learn more about their friendship, and their falling out. Published by HighBridge Audio. Read the full review of ZORA AND LANGSTON at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen as the beautiful yet brutal powers of author Mark Haddon and narrator Tim McInnerny collide in awesome display. In a retelling of Shakespeare’s PERICLES, we meet Chloe, a young woman whose harsh entry into the world merely foreshadows an even more disturbing life to come. Once you begin on the voyage of this novel, you won’t be able to stop. Published by Random House Audio. Read the full review of THE PORPOISE at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine contributor Jonathan Smith. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Penguin Random House and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Essential listening for teens. In this well-researched audiobook, Ann Bausum lays out the early days of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and Vikas Adam narrates with the urgency and sincerity required to convey the story. Young listeners can listen to be informed about this devastating history and the continuing crisis. Published by Listening Library. Read the full review of VIRAL at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kyla Garcia skillfully steers listeners through a story that leaps across decades. Nedda Papas is on a mission to save humanity by colonizing a distant planet when her ship’s life support system starts to go haywire. In flashback chapters we hear an 11-year-old Nedda breathlessly anticipating the Challenger launch, then devastated by its explosion. Then Nedda discovers that her father’s invention to alter the fabric of time has triggered a catastrophe. An atmospheric science fiction audiobook that will appeal to fans of AREA X and SEVENEVES. Published by Audible, Inc. Read the full review of LIGHT FROM OTHER STARS at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A lyrical exploration love, pain, survival, and redemption. Ocean Vuong narrates his autobiographical novel with a poetic rhythm and a devastating delivery. The novel is written as a compellingly honest letter from a young Vietnamese immigrant to his mother, despite the fact that she cannot read. Vuong will keep listeners hooked as the main character, Little Dog, discovers what it means to be young, gay, and Vietnamese while growing up in America. Published by Penguin Audio. Read the full review of ON EARTH WE'RE BRIEFLY GORGEOUS at audiofilemagazine.com For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Queer Eye’s resident fashion expert narrates his memoir with the perfect cheeky delivery. Tan France speaks openly about the difficulties of growing up South Asian in rural England, the importance of fashion to his self expression, falling in love with his husband in Salt Lake City, and getting cast for Queer Eye. Fans will love listening to his unique accent as they get to know more about his road to living life on his own terms. Published by Macmillan Audio. Read the full review of NATURALLY TAN at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Narrator January Lavoy was recently honored as a Golden Voice by AudioFile. January is a skilled narrator who draws listeners into whatever she's performing, whether it's a thrilling mystery or a compelling historical audiobook. We wanted to know more about January's journey to becoming an audiobook narrator, the differences between narrating in the booth and acting on stage, and all of the work that she does to inhabit so many dynamic characters. January has narrated hundreds of engaging audiobooks, including THE DIVINERS series by Libba Bray, Coretta Scott King's memoir MY LIFE, MY LOVE, MY LEGACY, and the L.A. Theatre Works production of NATIVE GUARD by Natasha Trethewey. Discover even more of January's audiobooks on her audiography page. For more audiobooks narrated by January LaVoy, browse her audiography at audiofilemagazine.com For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and Golden Voice narrator January LaVoy. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Penguin Random House Audio and Listening Library. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into a perfect summer audiobook from bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert. Vivian is a 95-year-old seamstress who came of age during WWII. Blair Brown narrates with a remarkably friendly demeanor as she recounts Vivian’s youthful escapades in New York City during the summer of 1940. The conversational storyline works well on audio, and the many dynamic characters come to life with Brown’s lively range of voices and accents. Published by Penguin Audio. Read the full review of CITY OF GIRLS at audiofilemagazine.com For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stefan Rudnicki is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Stefan’s deep baritone voice is distinctive and engaging. His many performances of literary work have a classic feel informed by his scholarship, yet are still approachable for listeners. His confident world-building in many fantasy and sci-fi audiobooks—from Ben Bova to BATTLEFIELD EARTH—is legendary. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: THE WINDS OF ALTAIR REVOLUTIONARY SUMMER SPEAK, MEMORY For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Publisher Michele Cobb. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simon Vance is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Simon brings a sense of adventure and wonder to his work—he’s on the journey with us to discover new worlds, characters, ideas. His charming British voice fits naturally with so many different characters, and his pronunciation of names and places seems effortless. After many years of recording, THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO series cemented Simon’s fame. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO BRING UP THE BODIES JERUSALEM For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Publisher Michele Cobb. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Dale is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Jim, as the narrator of all the Harry Potter audiobooks, may be responsible for introducing audiobooks to generations of listeners. Jim’s ability to create whimsical, imaginative character voices brings out all the fun and entertainment of the audiobooks he performs. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: HARRY POTTER series THE BEAST’S HEART THE SHOE BIRD For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Davina Porter is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Davina’s love of historical detail and her Scots heritage make her a perfect choice to narrate Diana Gabaldon’s multi-volume OUTLANDER series. Davina’s elegant, articulate narrations seem effortless. Her performances on many classics like ANNA KARENINA set the gold standard. Browse her full audiography, and explore her AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: OUTLANDER series THE UNCOMMON APPEAL OF CLOUDS SPLENDORS AND GLOOMS For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grover Gardner is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Grover’s voice of “sandpaper and velvet” brings alive nonfiction, especially history and philosophy, to fully engage listeners. He’s also adept at mysteries. Grover’s long career in the production and direction of audiobooks as well as in narration informs his performances from both sides of the mic. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: UP IN THE OLD HOTEL COLLARED Andy Carpenter series by David Rosenfelt THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MARK TWAIN, VOL. 1 For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Publisher Michele Cobb. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Lee is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. John has a great gift with vocal portraits of characters. In his many English and international mysteries, even the most minor characters can be memorable. His distinctive British voice and cadence help listeners remember important elements of a story. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: PRUSSIAN BLUE THE THIRST THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Robin Miles is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Robin is a student of dialects and accents, including African, Haitian, Creole, or simply brilliant regional American accents. Her performances of history and biography illustrate how Robin is successful at keeping listeners in the story. Her timing and pace within each work are finely tuned. Browse her full audiography, and explore her AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: BROKEN EARTH series BARRACOON ANOTHER BROOKLYN For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gerard Doyle is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Gerard is like the Pied Piper—a voice that you want to follow wherever the story leads. Whether it’s Irish noir thrills or fantasy world-building—just follow the voice. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: DEAD I WELL MAY BE MOTHERS AND SONS ERAGON For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alyssa Bresnahan is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Alyssa brings a clear confidence to her storytelling and is able to match the emotions of the characters. She’s attuned to small changes in tone and elevates the story for listeners. Alyssa is active on Broadway but makes time for audiobooks as often as she can. Browse her full audiography, and explore her AudioFile profile page. Essential listens: WHOSE NAMES ARE UNKNOWN AN OWL ON EVERY POST ALL THE BIRDS IN THE SKY For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

George Guidall is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. George was one of the first narrators to be named a Golden Voice, and his audiobook work has elevated the art form for more than 30 years. George is a consummate storyteller. He astutely understands an author’s approach and delivers the essence of the written work. At the same time, his warm, intimate voice fully engages the listener in international thrillers, literary fiction, or history. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: GABRIEL ALLON series WALT LONGMIRE series THE HOUR I FIRST BELIEVED For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Founder and Editor Robin Whitten. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simon Jones is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Simon was in the original BBC Radio cast of THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY, and has appeared in most of the subsequent re-imaginings. The “Guide” has put Simon onto stage and screen and into audiobook roles that capitalize on his keen sense of wit and humor. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: RIGHT HO, JEEVES THE AMULET OF SAMARKAND THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY: Tertiary Phase For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Publisher Michele Cobb. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dion Graham is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Dion is a storyteller for any age group. He can swing from Miles Davis to Trombone Shorty, from mysteries to history to complex astrophysics to audiobooks for children, Dion has legendary empathy for the characters he portrays and impressively connects with listeners. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: BLACK LEOPARD, RED WOLF MILES: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY LETTER FROM BIRMINGHAM JAIL For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Publisher Michele Cobb. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barbara Rosenblat is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Barbara is an audiobook superstar. She creates an energy field around her that extends to everyone she meets and electrifies each audiobook she records. She is superb with accents, unfailingly accurate and consistent. Her performances are legendary—from the Bronx to Bridget Jones, plus mystery series, children’s audiobooks, and literary and historical fiction. Her role as Miss Rosa in “Orange is the New Black” made her a star to non-audiobook listeners, too. Browse her full audiography, and explore her AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: MISTRESS OF THE RITZ A RIVER IN THE SKY Elizabeth Peters ANNE FRANK REMEMBERED For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Publisher Michele Cobb. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Simon Prebble is honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Over a long career, Simon has given listeners exceptional performances of multi-volume mystery and romance series, literary fiction, and history. From Sherlock Holmes to Shackleton, Simon’s distinctive British voice and keen facility with accents define the craft of audiobook narration. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: THE REMAINS OF THE DAY ENDURANCE THE PERFECT LOVER For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Publisher Michele Cobb. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Narrator Scott Brick celebrates his 20th year as an audiobook narrator this June. He received the honor of Golden Voice 15 years ago as his prolific career took off quickly—he credits producers Dan Musselman and Stefan Rudnicki, but Scott’s own passion for books and stories is equally a cause. Scott’s affinity for and knowledge of science fiction has kept that genre high on his favorites list. Scott talks with podcast host Josephine Reed about many aspects of his career as he celebrates his 20-year milestone. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: JURASSIC PARK DEAD WAKE DUNE: THE BUTLERIAN JIHAD For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are narrator Scott Brick and AudioFile podcast host, Josephine Reed. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In June 2019, Suzanne Toren was honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Suzanne’s career as a voice actor has spanned more than 20 years. Listeners have been engaged by her narrations of history, literary fiction, biography, and children’s audiobooks. Browse her full audiography, and explore her AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: “REMEMBER THE LADIES” AMERICA’S JEWISH WOMEN TEAM OF RIVALS For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are narrator Suzanne Toren and Michele Cobb, Publisher of AudioFile. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Audiobook narrator Johnny Heller was honored as a Golden Voice in June 2019. AudioFile’s lifetime achievement honor is given to top narrators who exemplify the very best in audiobook talent. With audiobooks as diverse as private-eye thrillers, serious history, or hilarious children’s stories, Johnny’s performances have delighted listeners of all ages and interests. Browse his full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: NOIR CLOSING TIME A TALE DARK & GRIMM For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are AudioFile Publisher Michele Cobb and narrator Johnny Heller. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In June 2019, Bahni Turpin was honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. Bahni has narrated audiobooks across a wide range of subjects and genres—many are female-driven, and they often feature African-American characters. Bahni’s work has been celebrated with multiple AudioFile Earphones Awards and Audie Awards—including the 2019 Audiobook of the Year, CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE. Browse Bahni’s full audiography, and explore her AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD THE HATE U GIVE CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are AudioFile Editor Robin Whitten narrator Bahni Turpin. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Audiobook narrator Edoardo Ballerini was honored as a Golden Voice in June 2019. AudioFile’s lifetime achievement honor is given to top narrators who exemplify the very best in audiobook talent. Edoardo has created exceptional audiobook performances across a wide variety of subjects and genres. Browse Edoardo’s full audiography, and explore his AudioFile profile page. Essential Listens: BEAUTIFUL RUINS THE MIRROR THIEF THE SWERVE For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are narrator Edoardo Ballerini and Michele Cobb, Publisher of AudioFile Magazine. Support for AudioFile's Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, publisher of bestselling titles for all ages — soon to include the Classic Starts series: 36 beloved stories retold for young listeners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In June 2019, January LaVoy was honored as a Golden Voice, AudioFile's lifetime achievement honor for audiobook narrators. January has made invaluable contributions to the craft of audiobook narration. She manages to straddle the worlds of stage, screen, and teaching, and still records many audiobooks a year. January has won multiple AudioFile Earphones Awards and Audie Awards. Browse her full audiography and explore her AudioFile profile page here. Essential Listens to appreciate January’s versatility, range, and skill: THE DIVINERS CAMINO ISLAND ELIZA HAMILTON For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are Robin Whitten, Editor & Founder of AudioFile Magazine, and Golden Voice narrator January LaVoy. Support for AudioFile’s Sound Reviews comes from Oasis Audio, home to The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers, read by LeVar Burton and nominated for the 2019 Audie Awards Audiobook of the Year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Actor Tembi Locke narrates her memoir in a smooth, warm voice that carries the listener through her story of falling in love with Saro, an engaging Sicilian chef, his early death from cancer, and how time with his family helped heal her intense grief. Locke's memoir frequently shifts timeframes, alternately voicing the devastation of his death and the joy of their life together. Locke captivates as she tells of her love for Saro and their daughter, Zoela; the pain of rejection by his family when he married her, a black American; and the bittersweet joy of reconciliation during his illness. Listeners will savor Locke's lyrical English and Italian, and will be swept away by scenes in his Sicilian village of finding solace in food made with love. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award. Published by Simon & Schuster Audio. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. On today’s episode are host Jo Reed and AudioFile Magazine Assistant Editor Emily Connelly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices