Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine
1,567 episodes - English - Latest episode: 18 days ago - ★★★★★ - 123 ratingsFind your next great audiobook on our podcast, Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine. Every Monday through Friday, AudioFile Editors recommend the best in audiobook listening. All in 6 minutes or less. It’s short, sweet, and just what your ears need. Want more? Listen to our bonus episodes featuring conversations with the best voices in the audiobook industry.
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Episodes
OSLO by J.T. Rogers, read by a Full Cast
January 02, 2020 10:00 - 5 minutesA superb audio adaptation of the 2017 Tony Award-winning play, OSLO. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith discuss this L.A. Theatre Works production that stands the complex issue of Israeli-Palestinian diplomacy on its head. The play reveals that high-wire diplomacy is a very human process, and is performed by an outstanding cast of internationally acclaimed actors. Published by L.A. Theatre Works. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. Support for Behind the Mic...
SONTAG by Benjamin Moser, read by Tavia Gilbert
January 01, 2020 10:00 - 5 minutesListen to a new biography about Susan Sontag, of the most interesting thinkers of her time. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith discuss this audiobook narrated with empathy by Tavia Gilbert. Author Benjamin Moser isn’t afraid to draw a true picture of Sontag’s thoughts and life, which were both extraordinarily complex. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of both. Published by Harper Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. Support for Behind the Mic with ...
A MINUTE TO MIDNIGHT by David Baldacci, read by Brittany Pressley, Kyf Brewer
December 31, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA fast-moving story of love, hate, and redemption. AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith discusses David Baldacci’s latest audiobook with host Jo Reed. A MINUTE TO MIDNIGHT is narrated by a talented duo. Brittany Pressley portrays a troubled FBI agent Atlee, whose idyllic childhood was interrupted by her sister’s kidnapping. And now, a serial killer is on the loose. Kyf Brewer’s narrations are intertwined with Pressley’s, narrating as FBI agent Eddy, and several other characters. The narrators blend the...
THE BEST AMERICAN SHORT STORIES 2019 by Anthony Doerr, Heidi Pitlor [Eds.], read by an Ensemble Cast
December 30, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA collection of short stories performed by narrators as diverse and vivid as the stories themselves. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith discuss the magic of short stories. Every year the Best American Short Stories make for a vibrant collection, and hearing these stories on audio with perfectly paired narrators is a delight. Whether characters are living on the edge in America or trying to make sense of a dystopian world, the narrators’ performances make the stories come alive. Publi...
MY FAKE RAKE by Eva Leigh, read by Zara Hampton-Brown
December 27, 2019 10:00 - 7 minutesA hilarious and heartfelt historical romance. AudioFile’s Emily Connelly tells host Jo Reed about all the many reasons she loved MY FAKE RAKE, including Zara Hampton-Brown’s delightful narration. Lady Grace is a herpetologist more comfortable in the library than the ballroom after a disastrous debut. When she suddenly has to find a husband, she and her friend Sebastian hatch a plan. Hampton-Brown doesn’t miss a comical beat as they work to transform Sebastian from a scholarly anthropologist i...
FREEDOM SOUP by Tami Charles, read by Bahni Turpin
December 26, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesCelebrate the new year and freedom with a new children’s audiobook on tradition, family, and remembrance. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Emily Connelly discuss the Haitian Kompa music, the subtle sound effects, and Bahni Turpin’s skilled narration that mix together so well. Every year, Ti Gran makes FREEDOM SOUP to celebrate the Haitian Revolution, and this is the first year that Belle is invited into the kitchen to help. A great listen for young listeners to highlight the fun of cooking in the...
RESISTANCE REBORN by Rebecca Roanhorse, read by Marc Thompson
December 25, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutes“A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…” Star Wars fans are flocking to the big screen this week to see THE RISE OF SKYWALKER. AudioFile’s Emily Connelly tells host Jo Reed about how RESISTANCE REBORN tells the story of what came after THE LAST JEDI — and how Marc Thompson’s endless well of voices combined with immersive sound effects makes for an impressive listening experience. Rebecca Roanhorse’s new addition to the Star Wars canon is perfect listening for those who can’t get enough of...
NO ONE IS TOO SMALL TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE by Greta Thunberg, read by Greta Thunberg, Saskia Maarleveld
December 24, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesActivist Greta Thunberg has inspired millions around the world. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Emily Connelly discuss this audiobook of the 16-year-old’s collected speeches, narrated with her clear passion and understanding of the urgency of climate change. It is an inspiring audiobook for listeners of any age, but particularly for any young person who has been emboldened by Thunberg or other young environmental activists. Saskia Maarleveld enlivens Thunberg’s words in several speeches that she...
THE STARLESS SEA by Erin Morgenstern, read by Dominic Hoffmann, Dion Graham, Bahni Turpin, Fiona Hardingham, Alan Corduner, Jorjeana Marie
December 23, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesImmerse yourself in this love letter to the power of stories. AudioFile’s Emily Connelly tells host Jo Reed about becoming swept up in Erin Morgenstern’s latest audiobook. Listeners meet Zachary Ezra Rawlins, new media graduate student and son of a fortune-teller, as he discovers a mysterious book tucked away in the school library. Zachary travels into fantastical realms, and all the rich details come to life with Dominic Hoffman’s clear narration. Interwoven tales, impressively delivered by ...
THE BROMANCE BOOK CLUB by Lyssa Kay Adams, read by Maxwell Caulfield, Andrew Eiden
December 20, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA romance with an intriguing concept—men reading romance novels to help their own relationships. AudioFile Publisher Michele Cobb and host Jo Reed discuss why this romance works so well on audio. Andrew Eiden reads the contemporary narrative about Gavin’s attempts to save his failing marriage, and Maxwell Caulfield narrates as the Count in the Regency romance that is guiding the men. Published by Penguin Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. Support for Behind t...
INSIDE OUT by Demi Moore, read by Demi Moore
December 19, 2019 10:00 - 7 minutesFans of Demi Moore’s acting will want to immerse themselves in this velvety listening experience. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Michele Cobb discuss the surprising emotional revelations in this Hollywood A-lister’s honest reflection on her life. The author’s low timbre and raspy voice guide us through her turbulent life and reveal juicy details from her Hollywood marriages. Listeners will feel as though they understand her and empathize when she falls into addiction. Published by HarperAudio. ...
MEDALLION STATUS by John Hodgman, read by John Hodgman
December 18, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesChase elite airline status with comedian and actor John Hodgman leading the way. His collection of humorous essays, many addressing travel and the trappings of life post-fame, is a delight. AudioFile publisher Michele Cobb tells host Jo Reed all the reasons she connected with this listen, including all of her time spent in airport lounges. Published by Penguin Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from Pa...
DEAR GIRLS by Ali Wong, read by Ali Wong, Justin Hakuta
December 17, 2019 10:00 - 7 minutesThe author is as candid in this memoir as she is in her viral comedy specials. AudioFile publisher Michele Cobb tells host Jo Reed about relating to the challenges and rewards of being a working mother supported by a husband who is willing to take on non-traditional roles. Filled with laughs, this honest celebrity biography read by the author and her husband is an absolutely fun listen with plenty of real stuff to say. Published by Random House Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at au...
TOIL & TROUBLE by Augusten Burroughs, read by Augusten Burroughs, Gabra Zackman, Robin Miles, Anne Bobby
December 16, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesAugusten Burroughs divulges his witchy truth in this offbeat memoir. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile publisher Michele Cobb delve into the author’s unusual childhood and discover how witchcraft has continuously intervened in his life. The author narrates with a sharply articulated wry drawl, and an ensemble cast reads the parts of key female family members in his life. Published by Macmillan Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioF...
Interview with Adjoa Andoh 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 13, 2019 10:00 - 11 minutesAdjoa Andoh’s skilled narrations landed her on AudioFile’s 2019 Best Audiobooks list twice! She joins Robin Whitten to discuss her 2019 Best Sci-Fi, Fantasy, & Horror winner, Ann Leckie’s THE RAVEN TOWER. This fantasy tale is full of powerful gods, complex political machinations, and revenge. Find out what special preparation is needed to narrate as an ancient god. Published by Hachette Audio. Adjoa also earned a spot on the 2019 Best Romance Audiobooks list for Talia Hibbert’s contemporary B...
Interview with Vikas Adam: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 12, 2019 10:00 - 9 minutesSandhya Menon’s THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT SWEETIE is on AudioFile’s list of 2019 Best Young Adult Audiobooks. Narrator Vikas Adam joins AudioFile’s Michele Cobb to share what he loved about co-narrating this YA audiobook romance along with Soneela Nankani. Vikas gives voice to the mixed feelings of Ashish Patel, a high school basketball star who has just been dumped by his college girlfriend. Ashish gives in to his parents’ pressure to try arranged dating, and their pick is Sweetie, narrated by...
Interview with Anthony Rey Perez: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 11, 2019 10:00 - 10 minutesWe continue our 2019 Best Audiobooks celebrations with Children & Family Listening. Anthony Rey Perez narrated Carlos Hernandez’s SAL AND GABI BREAK THE UNIVERSE, an audiobook that blends realistic and fantastic events—and plenty of humor and heart. Anthony joined AudioFile’s Robin Whitten to talk about narrating complex books for kids and teen listeners, growing up as a first generation Cuban-American in Miami, and his appreciation for Hernandez’s imaginative characters. Published by Listeni...
Interview with Moira Quirk: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 10, 2019 10:00 - 10 minutesGIDEON THE NINTH is a highly original listen, and it’s one of our 2019 Best Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror Audiobooks. Join narrator Moira Quirk and AudioFile’s Robin Whitten for insights into Tamsyn Muir’s audiobook packed full of unusual characters, both living and dead. Moira says, “I looked at it as a country house murder, but in space, and a little more dystopian, and odd, and irreverent.” Moira shares how she chose to voice the snarky Gideon plus her necromancer companion, nuns, skeletons, an...
Interview with JD Jackson: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 09, 2019 10:00 - 9 minutesJD Jackson’s narration of Attica Locke’s HEAVEN, MY HOME has earned a spot on the 2019 Best Mystery Audiobooks list. JD joins AudioFile’s Michele Cobb to talk about his narration of this new mystery and Locke’s 2017 Best Audiobook winner, BLUEBIRD, BLUEBIRD. Both audiobooks are centered around Texas Ranger Darren Mathews, a man with a rocky marriage, a drinking problem, and a penchant for doing bad things for good reasons. JD talks about bringing these East Texas characters to life. Published...
Interview with George Newbern: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 06, 2019 10:00 - 8 minutesNarrator George Newbern joines AudioFile’s Michele Cobb for a discussion of Rick Atkinson’s newest history, THE BRITISH ARE COMING: The War for America, Lexington to Princeton, 1775-1777. This engaging listen is one of AudioFile’s 2019 Best Biography & History Audiobooks and is the first in a planned trilogy about the American Revolution. Listen for insights into the special preparation needed to bring this nonfiction audiobook to life. Published by Macmillan Audio. 2019 Best Biography & Hist...
Interview with Rupert Degas: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 05, 2019 10:00 - 13 minutesNarrator Rupert Degas joins AudioFile’s Robin Whitten to talk about narrating THE AYE-AYE AND I, English naturalist Gerald Durell’s memoir of his adventures in Madagascar. Rupert Degas beautifully channels Durrell’s voice, personality, and enthusiasm. Listen as he shares what he loved about narrating all of Durrell’s memoirs of travels around the world. Published by Naxos Audiobooks. 2019 Best Memoir Audiobooks: THE MOMENT OF LIFT by Melinda Gates, read by Melinda Gates TRAILBLAZER by Dorot...
Interview with Frankie Corzo: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 04, 2019 10:00 - 8 minutesWhat makes THE DEATH AND LIFE OF AIDA HERNANDEZ such a powerful listen? Narrator Frankie Corzo joins AudioFile publisher Michele Cobb to share her thoughts on Aaron Bobrow-Strain’s important work, one of AudioFile’s 2019 Best Audiobooks. This timely audiobook, which required special preparation, tells the harrowing story of Aida’s journey across the Mexico-U.S. border in 1987 and an up-close depiction of the obstacles that confront her. Published by Macmillan Audio. 2019 Best Nonfiction & Cul...
Interview with Jason Culp: 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 03, 2019 10:00 - 12 minutesIn a special episode of Behind the Mic, narrator Jason Culp joins AudioFile editor Robin Whitten to talk about his work on Emma Donoghue’s AKIN, which is one of AudioFile’s Best Audiobooks in the Fiction, Poetry, and Drama category. Hear Jason’s thoughts on narrating this latest novel from the author of ROOM, and add this audiobook to your wish list. Published by Hachette Audio. 2019 Best Fiction, Poetry, & Drama Audiobooks: AKIN by Emma Donoghue, read by Jason Culp RED AT THE BONE by Jacqu...
AudioFile’s 2019 Best Audiobooks
December 02, 2019 10:00 - 10 minutesDiscover this year’s best audiobook listening! Join AudioFile editor Robin Whitten and host Jo Reed to get a peek behind the scenes into the making of AudioFile’s 2019 Best Audiobooks list. Why are these 53 audiobooks on our list, and why do we think they’re the best listening around? It’s a slightly impossible task to choose from the 2,500 audiobooks AudioFile reviewed in 2019, with many excellent titles to choose from. This year’s lineup includes diverse, deeply personal, and timely storyte...
THE SECOND SLEEP by Robert Harris, read by Roy McMillan
November 29, 2019 10:00 - 8 minutesA unique and genre-bending story that keeps listeners on their toes. Robin Whitten, Editor of AudioFile, tells host Jo Reed about this expertly written and performed audiobook where nothing is exactly as it seems—but no spoilers! A young priest investigates a possible murder mystery in a medieval rural British world of 1468—a world that listeners soon learn seems to be a post-apocolyptic one. Narrator Roy McMillan delivers a finely nuanced performance of this suspenseful and surprising listen...
THE ACCOMPLICE by Joseph Kanon, read by Jonathan Davis
November 28, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesThis standout listening experince centers around famed Nazi hunter Max Weill. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Robin Whitten discuss this thought-provoking and highly satisfying historical thriller set in 1962. Max sees elusive Nazi doctor Otto Schramm in a Hamburg park and insists his nephew Aaron take over his search. Narrator Jonathan Davis uses his skill with accents to effortlessly become all of the characters in this absorbing listen. Published by Simon & Schuster Audio. Find more audiobook...
THE GIVER OF STARS by Jojo Moyes, read by Julia Whelan
November 27, 2019 10:00 - 7 minutesA gorgeous listen about friendship, love, independence, and the power of stories. Join AudioFile editor Robin Whitten and host Jo Reed as they discuss a new historical fiction title centered around the lives of Appalachia's Packhorse Librarians. The 1930s come to life with Julia Whelan’s gifted narration as she conveys the inspiring grit of these “library women,” as captured by Jojo Moyes. Published by Penguin Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free ...
UNDER OCCUPATION by Alan Furst, read by Peter Noble
November 26, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA tense, high-action WWII thriller narrated with skill. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile editor Robin Whitten love a good historical mystery and welcome this new audiobook from Alan Furst. Peter Noble evokes the danger and uncertainty of occupied Paris as he narrates the tale of a crime novelist and accidental spy. Listeners will appreciate the period detail and expert narration. Published by Simon & Schuster Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobo...
MADAME BADOBEDAH by Sophie Dahl, read by Sophie Dahl
November 25, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesEnchanting family listening. Join AudioFile editor Robin Whitten and host Jo Reed as they discuss MADAME BADOBEDAH, which should definitely be in the queue for your next family road trip. Young Mabel lives in the Mermaid Hotel and is decidedly suspicious of their latest lodger, whom she dubs Madame Badobedah. Author Sophie Dahl’s light, playful voice totally engages listeners, and the lively music and audible details—wailing sirens, crinkling toffee wrappers—create a soundscape that will draw...
LET HIM GO by Larry Watson, read by Dan John Miller
November 22, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesTravel the Dakota badlands to Gladstone, Montana, in the early 1950s with George and Margaret Blackledge. AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith tells host Jo Reed what he loved about this historical fiction audiobook centered on a feud between families. Narrator Dan John Miller propels the story along expertly as a laconic former sheriff follows his strong-willed wife on a journey to reconnect with their grandson. Published by Brilliance Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.co...
NOTRE-DAME by Ken Follett, read by Ken Follett
November 21, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA wonderful, informative, and concise love letter to the Notre-Dame Cathedral from the author of THE PILLARS OF THE EARTH. AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith and host Jo Reed discuss Ken Follett’s impressive and passionate narration of this history written in response to the devastating fire in Paris in 2019. Enlightening glimpses of a rich history are performed with deep affection and skill. Published by Penguin Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audio...
THE EDUCATION OF AN IDEALIST by Samantha Power, read by Samantha Power
November 20, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA remarkable memoir from the former U.N. ambassador is read with gravitas, humility, and humor. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith talk about Samantha Power’s skill with writing and her fascinating life, both personal and political. Power speaks on struggling to retain her natural activism and desire to intervene in human rights abuses abroad while also operating within the constraints of the government. Listeners will appreciate insights into working in the Obama administration. Pub...
COLD STORAGE by David Koepp, read by Rupert Friend
November 19, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA truly creepy and entertaining listen where unstoppable fungi take center stage. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith talk about the “zombie fungus” in this debut bio-thriller that has reemerged thirty years after two bioterror operatives thought it had been contained. David Koepp, well known as the screenwriter of JURASSIC PARK and other megahits, delivers all the cinematic tension, action, and well-placed humor. Narrator Rupert Friend keeps us engaged throughout the detailed chemist...
AGENT RUNNING IN THE FIELD by John le Carré, read by John le Carré
November 18, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesJohn le Carré serves us a wholly engaging audio experience as author and narrator of a new standalone thriller. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Jonathan Smith talk about how the drama in this thriller is rooted in character development and dialogue, including commentary on the current state of politics and Brexit. Nat is a career spy whose loyalties are constantly being tested and who is now worrying about potential redundancy. Le Carré’s obvious fun in narrating his story makes listening a plea...
The Extraordinary Audiobooks of Philip Pullman’s Fantastic Worlds
November 15, 2019 14:00 - 38 minutesIt’s no secret that the AudioFile team loves author Philip Pullman and the worlds he built in the HIS DARK MATERIALS trilogy about Lyra Belaqua, the clever young protagonist we first met in THE GOLDEN COMPASS. Last year, we were fortunate enough to speak with the creative team behind the full-cast production of THE GOLDEN COMPASS, a landmark in the audiobook world. Host Jo Reed speaks with Orli Moscowitz, Penguin Random House executive producer; Garrick Hagon, the director of the first trilog...
NOTHING TO SEE HERE by Kevin Wilson, read by Marin Ireland
November 15, 2019 10:00 - 7 minutesMemorable and thoroughly entertaining listening. AudioFile Publisher Michele Cobb and host Jo Reed talk about this wacky audiobook narrated by the talented Marin Ireland. Lillian and Madison were best friends at an elite boarding school together and maintain their relationship as pen pals. Madison’s doing well; in fact, she’s married to a U.S. Senator who is up for Secretary of State—the only problem is that her stepchildren spontaneously combust. Lillian becomes their “governess” and has the...
FIND ME by André Aciman, read by Michael Stuhlbarg
November 14, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesAndre Aciman’s highly anticipated sequel to CALL ME BY YOUR NAME. We revisit Elio and Oliver, as their story is not yet over. Jo Reed and AudioFile Publisher Michele Cobb discuss the themes of love, longing and relationships that permeate the beautiful audiobook, elegantly narrated by Michael Stuhlbarg. Wonderful listening. Published by Macmillan Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsl...
HOME WORK by Julie Andrews, Emma Walton Hamilton, read by Julie Andrews
November 13, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesIn her own words and with her own voice, Julie Andrews shares tales from her life in Hollywood and on Broadway. Listeners get insights into the making of THE SOUND OF MUSIC, MARY POPPINS, and Andrews’s astronomical rise to stardom. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. Support for Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine comes from GraphicAudio, A Movie In Your Mind. Celebrating 15 Yea...
THE DUTCH HOUSE by Ann Patchett, read by Tom Hanks
November 12, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesTom Hanks gives a sensitive and warm reading of Ann Patchett’s fine novel about love, loyalty, and redemption. Jo Reed and AudioFile Publisher Michele Cobb chat about Hanks’s subtle performance in this story about two siblings, Danny and Maeve. After a rough upbringing, the two have complicated relationships with each other and their grand childhood home. Published by Harper Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up f...
THE CHESTNUT MAN by Søren Sveistrup, read by Peter Noble
November 11, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesAn intense thriller from the writer of the original Danish TV show The Killing. Jo Reed and AudioFile publisher Michele Cobb discuss narrator Peter Noble’s skill in bringing a wide range of characters to life in this audiobook. Mismatched detectives Naia Thulin and Mark Hess highlight different styles of police work as they track a serial killer whose signature is leaving small dolls made of chestnuts at the scenes. Published by Harper Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilema...
GET A LIFE, CHLOE BROWN by Talia Hibbert, read by Adjoa Andoh
November 08, 2019 10:00 - 7 minutesAdjoa Andoh’s lively narration and a charming romance will have listeners grinning from ear to ear. AudioFile’s Emily Connelly tells host Jo Reed what she loved about this witty and steamy romance from Talia Hibbert. Chloe Brown has just suffered a near-death experience and decides she’s going to “get a life.” First order of business: making a list of how to do that. Chloe enlists her tattooed super, Redford Morgan, to help her check items off her list, and listeners will delight at his easy ...
HOW WE FIGHT FOR OUR LIVES by Saeed Jones, read by Saeed Jones
November 07, 2019 10:00 - 5 minutesA Kirkus Prize-winning memoir from author Saeed Jones. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Emily Connelly talk about the emotional impact of listening to the author narrate his own memoir. His story centers around his experience coming of age as a Black, gay boy in the South, and growing up with a single mother. Through his dynamic narration, listeners will hear echoes of events that shaped his life, whether it’s tender moments with his mother, or the voices of chilling, taunting slurs and declarati...
TRISTAN STRONG PUNCHES A HOLE IN THE SKY by Kwame Mbalia, read by Amir Abdullah
November 06, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesA thrilling mythological word comes to life with Amir Abdullah’s rich baritone and Kwame Mbalia’s fast-paced adventure tale. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Emily Connelly talk about the vibrant African-American and West African gods listeners meet as Tristan Strong finds himself plunged into another realm. Abdullah’s versatile voice brings each character to life, and young listeners will fall for the hilarious Gum Baby. This entry into the Rick Riordan Presents pantheon will delight. Published ...
LOOK BOTH WAYS by Jason Reynolds, read by Heather Alicia Simms, Chris Chalk, Bahni Turpin, Adenrele Ojo, Kevin R. Free, JD Jackson, Guy Lockard, January LaVoy, David Sadzin, Jason Reynolds
November 05, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesListening to this National Book Award finalist is a delight. Ten African-American narrators read 10 interconnected stories with uniformly excellent performances. AudioFile’s Emily Connelly tells host Jo Reed what she loved about this middle-grade audiobook written by Jason Reynolds. In tales set after school gets out, students head home on skateboards, talk about boogers and water bears, stand up to bullies, and show up to admit when they’ve done wrong. The author himself narrates the final c...
THE SECRET COMMONWEALTH by Philip Pullman, read by Michael Sheen
November 04, 2019 10:00 - 6 minutesContinue the story of Lyra and Pantalaimon in an epic adventure set 8 years after HIS DARK MATERIALS came to an end, and 20 years after we met Lyra as an infant in LA BELLE SAUVAGE, on today’s episode. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile’s Emily Connelly share a love for Philip Pullman’s fantastical worlds. Michael Sheen throws himself wholeheartedly into narrating this adventure, and listeners will be rapt. Conflict between Lyra and her daemon Pantalaimon is the catalyst for a series of journeys in t...
Horror Out Loud: Joe Hill and Dennis Boutsikaris in Conversation
November 01, 2019 13:00 - 28 minutesListen as author Joe Hill and narrator Dennis Boutsikaris join host Jo Reed for a conversation about crafting a chilling audiobook. In honor of Hill’s newest collection, FULL THROTTLE, Behind the Mic with AudioFile Magazine is rebroadcasting our conversation about their collaboration on STRANGE WEATHER, Hill’s collection of four short novels. Getting the author and narrator together to talk about the creative process allows for fascinating insights into the making of audiobooks. Hill talks ab...
THE NIGHT FIRE by Michael Connelly, read by Titus Welliver, Christine Lakin
November 01, 2019 09:00 - 6 minutesAnother cold case intrigues LAPD’s Harry Bosch and pulls him out of his “retirement.” He teams up with the young detective of THE LATE SHOW, Renee Ballard. The dual narrators take on cops, crime, secrets, and great detective work. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. Join New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan for a seven-part original podcast – Behind the Scenes of Becomin...
FULL THROTTLE by Joe Hill, read by Zachary Quinto, Wil Wheaton, Kate Mulgrew, Neil Gaiman, Ashleigh Cummings, Joe Hill, Laysla De Oliveira, Nate Corddry, Connor Jessup, Stephen Lang, George Guidall
October 31, 2019 09:00 - 6 minutesThough Halloween inspired today’s audiobook pick, these 13 dark and creepy stories will linger much longer than one all hallows eve. Host Jo Reed and AudioFile editor Robin Whitten discuss Joe Hill’s new short story collection—and the star-powered cast of narrators. Published by Harper Audio. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. Join New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan ...
HEART OF BARKNESS by Spencer Quinn, read by Jim Frangione
October 30, 2019 09:00 - 6 minutesWhy does Chet’s canine point of view work so well as an audiobook? Jim Frangione’s performance and the wordplay of Quinn’s Chet & Bernie mysteries make for great listening—and a good topic for this conversation between host Jo Reed and editor Robin Whitten. Published by Recorded Books. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. Join New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan for a se...
CHARLOTTE'S WEB by E.B. White, read by Meryl Streep and a Full Cast
October 29, 2019 09:00 - 6 minutesHow does the dazzling new full-cast recording of White’s classic compare to the original recording by the author? In this episode, host Jo Reed and AudioFile editor Robin Whitten talk about performances beloved by generations of listeners. Published by Listening Library. Find more audiobook recommendations at audiofilemagazine.com. For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. Join New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan for a seven-part origin...