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So You Want To Be A Voice Actor: A Kids' Guide to Voice Acting, Character Voices, Animation and Video Game Recording, and the Talented Performers Behind ... Characters
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 18, 2026
So, You Want to Be a Voice Actor is a creative and easy-to-read guide that provides tips and encouragement for aspiring voice actors. This book is a part of a series of over 100 titles called So You Want to Be a…The author, Linda Soules, has crafted various books catering to readers ages 10-14 so that any young reader can find their career passion through her series. Ms. Soules is very transparent about the use of AI illustrations, but reassures the reader in her author’s note that the writing is strictly hers. Though So You Want to Be a Voice Actor’s target audience is middle grade, little kids can simply enjoy the colorful and detailed illustrations, since some of the vocabulary might be too advanced for their age. Older teenagers and even adults can appreciate the thought-provoking topic and practical advice featured in the book.
Ms. Soules’ tone of voice is bright and comforting. The way she describes voice acting and how quickly anyone can start voice acting was really encouraging. An interesting part of the book was when Ms. Soules described an hour-by-hour daily routine of a voice actor. Another informative section of the book was the list of famous voice actors like Nancy Cartwright, Mel Blanc, and Phil LaMarr. Readers may not know the humans behind their favorite cartoon characters, so this was a nice addition to the guide. Readers might also appreciate the added terminology glossary toward the end of the book. Something Ms. Soules shares in her book is how a movie comes together. It takes a lot of pieces to put together an animated show or feature film. Oddly enough, some people working on the film may never meet each other. It goes to show just how much hard work goes into voice acting!
So, You Want to Be a Voice Actor does have some advanced vocabulary that its intended audience (on the younger end) may stumble over. While the writing style is accessible, some sentences did feel repetitive and overexplained. There are also quotes from anonymous sources presented as “the voice actor said,” which creates a disconnect between the audience, source, and writer. Mrs. Soules mentions in her author’s note that the book was written from research and personal experience. Yet, a reader may be unaware of where the information is coming from—unless they read the author’s note. Maybe the sources could be identified in future books.
Nonetheless, So You Want to Be a Voice Actor is still a fun read for all ages!
Additionally, in the author’s note, Ms. Soules describes the heart behind her work and the craftsmanship that goes into every single book that she creates. Hopefully, this will ease any hesitation a reader may have about AI-generated illustrations. But just know, the illustrations do enhance the book. They are eye-catching, consistent, and detailed. Any reader can understand what’s happening in the photo without having to refer to the text.
If you have any plans to become a voice actor, consider picking up So, You Want to Be a Voice Actor by Linda Soules, or check out any of her other books. Some other topics include: how to be an astronaut, mayor, sailing racer, or an ice-cream flavor inventor!
At a Glance
A middle grade nonfiction guide introducing young readers to the voice acting profession. Covers daily routines, famous voice actors, industry terminology, and how animated productions come together. Bright, encouraging tone with detailed AI illustrations suitable for ages 10 and up.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy
Kids’ nonfiction, career exploration books, middle grade guides, voice acting, animation fans, books about creative careers, illustrated nonfiction for kids, series nonfiction, books for ages 10-14, encouraging reads for young dreamers
Ms. Soules’ tone of voice is bright and comforting. The way she describes voice acting and how quickly anyone can start voice acting was really encouraging. An interesting part of the book was when Ms. Soules described an hour-by-hour daily routine of a voice actor. Another informative section of the book was the list of famous voice actors like Nancy Cartwright, Mel Blanc, and Phil LaMarr. Readers may not know the humans behind their favorite cartoon characters, so this was a nice addition to the guide. Readers might also appreciate the added terminology glossary toward the end of the book. Something Ms. Soules shares in her book is how a movie comes together. It takes a lot of pieces to put together an animated show or feature film. Oddly enough, some people working on the film may never meet each other. It goes to show just how much hard work goes into voice acting!
So, You Want to Be a Voice Actor does have some advanced vocabulary that its intended audience (on the younger end) may stumble over. While the writing style is accessible, some sentences did feel repetitive and overexplained. There are also quotes from anonymous sources presented as “the voice actor said,” which creates a disconnect between the audience, source, and writer. Mrs. Soules mentions in her author’s note that the book was written from research and personal experience. Yet, a reader may be unaware of where the information is coming from—unless they read the author’s note. Maybe the sources could be identified in future books.
Nonetheless, So You Want to Be a Voice Actor is still a fun read for all ages!
Additionally, in the author’s note, Ms. Soules describes the heart behind her work and the craftsmanship that goes into every single book that she creates. Hopefully, this will ease any hesitation a reader may have about AI-generated illustrations. But just know, the illustrations do enhance the book. They are eye-catching, consistent, and detailed. Any reader can understand what’s happening in the photo without having to refer to the text.
If you have any plans to become a voice actor, consider picking up So, You Want to Be a Voice Actor by Linda Soules, or check out any of her other books. Some other topics include: how to be an astronaut, mayor, sailing racer, or an ice-cream flavor inventor!
At a Glance
A middle grade nonfiction guide introducing young readers to the voice acting profession. Covers daily routines, famous voice actors, industry terminology, and how animated productions come together. Bright, encouraging tone with detailed AI illustrations suitable for ages 10 and up.
Best for Readers Who Enjoy
Kids’ nonfiction, career exploration books, middle grade guides, voice acting, animation fans, books about creative careers, illustrated nonfiction for kids, series nonfiction, books for ages 10-14, encouraging reads for young dreamers
May 14, 2026
So You Want To Be a Voice Actor is smart, encouraging nonfiction that talks to kids like they’re already artists. It makes a creative career feel exciting, but it also shows the real work behind the “funny voices,” which is exactly what makes it trustworthy.
This isn’t a plot-driven book. It’s more like an inviting behind-the-scenes walk into a recording booth. Linda Soules explains how voice actors build characters using pitch, pace, breath, and (most of all) genuine emotion, reminding readers that microphones “hear everything.” The book’s strongest moments feel like stories shared across the kitchen table: a teen reading four characters to a younger sibling, then hearing, “I can see them.” That line lands, because it captures what kids already know from cartoons and bedtime books. Voices can make imaginary people feel real. As a parent, I loved how often it quietly nudges practice into everyday life: reading aloud, trying one sentence in five emotions, warming up your voice, and noticing how a smile changes sound.
Soules’s style is clear and lyrical, with short sections that keep 10 to 12 year olds moving while still giving adults something to think about. The practical advice is solid, and the tone stays respectful. The heart of the book stays strong.
If you want a nonfiction read that builds confidence, creativity, and empathy, without talking down, this is an excellent choice. It’s a sweet fit for family reading, and it may even turn your next bedtime story into a tiny, joyful voice-acting lesson.
This isn’t a plot-driven book. It’s more like an inviting behind-the-scenes walk into a recording booth. Linda Soules explains how voice actors build characters using pitch, pace, breath, and (most of all) genuine emotion, reminding readers that microphones “hear everything.” The book’s strongest moments feel like stories shared across the kitchen table: a teen reading four characters to a younger sibling, then hearing, “I can see them.” That line lands, because it captures what kids already know from cartoons and bedtime books. Voices can make imaginary people feel real. As a parent, I loved how often it quietly nudges practice into everyday life: reading aloud, trying one sentence in five emotions, warming up your voice, and noticing how a smile changes sound.
Soules’s style is clear and lyrical, with short sections that keep 10 to 12 year olds moving while still giving adults something to think about. The practical advice is solid, and the tone stays respectful. The heart of the book stays strong.
If you want a nonfiction read that builds confidence, creativity, and empathy, without talking down, this is an excellent choice. It’s a sweet fit for family reading, and it may even turn your next bedtime story into a tiny, joyful voice-acting lesson.
June 1, 2026
No matter how old or young you are, watching your favorite animated movies and cartoons is fun, but it can also be motivational -- in the fact that you may suddenly realize you have a calling. Just as this book in Linda Soules' "So You Want To Be A..." series points out -- if you find yourself mimicking the voices of your favorite characters, you might want to become a voice actor. But it's about more than "faking" a different voice. You have to learn about things like pitch, tone, and more.
Like a singer, you'll likely want to take some voice training classes. And, also like a singer, when it's time to record, you'll find yourself in a studio with all the same stuff as a music studio. Your movements won't be important to the character you're voicing, but if you've ever watched the behind the scenes footage of one of your favorite animated shows or movies, you've probably seen clips of the actors in the studio moving their hands about, changing their facial expressions, and more -- because, even if you're only "voicing" a character, getting into those movements and mannerisms can help you bring them to life even more.
This fun and educational little book dives into the work it takes to voice a character, and even the stuff prior -- like the artist and actor brainstorming on how the character should be portrayed. It dives into the likely careers of voice actors. It's a great base to begin with if voice acting is something that intrigues you.
Like a singer, you'll likely want to take some voice training classes. And, also like a singer, when it's time to record, you'll find yourself in a studio with all the same stuff as a music studio. Your movements won't be important to the character you're voicing, but if you've ever watched the behind the scenes footage of one of your favorite animated shows or movies, you've probably seen clips of the actors in the studio moving their hands about, changing their facial expressions, and more -- because, even if you're only "voicing" a character, getting into those movements and mannerisms can help you bring them to life even more.
This fun and educational little book dives into the work it takes to voice a character, and even the stuff prior -- like the artist and actor brainstorming on how the character should be portrayed. It dives into the likely careers of voice actors. It's a great base to begin with if voice acting is something that intrigues you.
June 4, 2026
Overall I liked this book. SO YOU WANT TO BE A VOICE ACTOR is a fun and informative deep dive for both children and adults into the world of voice acting. Linda Soules does a great job introducing the reader to every aspect of the job, including the basic requirements, common vocabulary, and the challenges of character development. She even provides an example of an actor’s daily schedule, which gives young readers an idea of the great amount of time and preparation required in this profession. Perhaps my favorite part was when Soules says that children are the “original voice actors” when they read aloud or play make believe. This comparison helps to immediately draw in the target audience and make them feel that they too can do this job because they have been doing it for years.
The AI-assisted images offer color and whimsy to the book but the number of pictures overshadows the written content and distracts the reader. I also felt that the language was a bit mature and stiff for the target audience of 10-14 year olds. That being said, I think this book is a great first stop for kids interested in a career in voice acting.
The AI-assisted images offer color and whimsy to the book but the number of pictures overshadows the written content and distracts the reader. I also felt that the language was a bit mature and stiff for the target audience of 10-14 year olds. That being said, I think this book is a great first stop for kids interested in a career in voice acting.
May 29, 2026
Linda Soules, So You Want To Be A Voice Actor, gives young readers an engaging and informative introduction to a career many children enjoy but rarely understand. Aimed at ages 10–14, this illustrated nonfiction guide goes above and beyond the idea of simply doing funny voices and explores the real skills, dedication, and creativity required to succeed as a voice actor.
Soules does an excellent job explaining how performers bring characters to life using only their voices. From animation and video games to audiobooks, commercials, and dubbing, the book provides a broad overview of the many paths available within the profession. Topics like vocal technique, breath control, recording technology, and character development are presented in a way that is easy for young readers to understand.
A consistent encouraging tone of the book makes the profession feel attainable while remaining realistic about the challenges involved. The colorful illustrations complement the text beautifully, helping to maintain reader interest and bringing many of the concepts to life.
Soules does an excellent job explaining how performers bring characters to life using only their voices. From animation and video games to audiobooks, commercials, and dubbing, the book provides a broad overview of the many paths available within the profession. Topics like vocal technique, breath control, recording technology, and character development are presented in a way that is easy for young readers to understand.
A consistent encouraging tone of the book makes the profession feel attainable while remaining realistic about the challenges involved. The colorful illustrations complement the text beautifully, helping to maintain reader interest and bringing many of the concepts to life.
June 7, 2026
So you want to be a voice actor by Linda Soules provides young people (10-14) an honest look at one of entertainment's most creative career paths and offers a behind-the-scenes look into how a voice actor can achieve success in a profession built upon discipline, creativity, technical skill and years of training. Not just about doing funny voices, the author shows readers how pitch, pace, breath and rhythm combine to bring imaginary characters to life as if they were real. Soules introduces readers to those individuals responsible for directing, engineering sound and animating, all working in concert. This book covers areas such as animation, video games, audio books, commercials, and dubbing. It will help readers understand what is expected of a performer in these various fields. The use of vibrant illustrations combined with a clear and poetic writing style ensures that the reader will be able to absorb the information without feeling overwhelmed. Therefore, for the child who has always given each character their own voice, this is a trust-worthy and insightful read.
May 25, 2026
Soules says her books were written for the 10-14 age range; I picked up the book at 55 because numerous people have suggested I do audio book recordings. I am an avid reader and listener of books, a mom who read with voices to my children when they were little, and former teacher who had peers tell me to narrate as well when they heard my read-alouds to my classes. Oddly enough I've done one voice over for an online video for a college course. That didn't require changing my voice at all, but it gave me a feel for the production aspect. This book has wonderful guidance and rake away tools even I can use if I decide to move forward with this career. The fun facts and famous voice actors sections were great information, of those mentioned in the actors, I only knew of Mel Blanc. I'm planning to look up the others, especially Nancy Cartwright, the voice of Bart Simpson.
I wish this series was around when I was young and trying to decide my future profession!
I wish this series was around when I was young and trying to decide my future profession!
July 22, 2026
A great book written for the specified age group interested in performance arts or voice acting.
Acting should be learned first, so voice acting is simpler and sounds more natural.
This is the type of actor who works behind the scenes, but skill and professionalism are still needed. The voice must be as convincing as the physical presence. The nuances, fluctuations, tones, tempo, sounds, and exaggeration all tell a story or shape a character. Sometimes, voice actors make a lot of movements to mentally hold imagery and vocally unfold it.
Patience is essential, especially when multiple edits or retakes are needed.
The craft requires:
Voice flexibility
Consistency from day one until the final product
Trust in the process, even when you can't see the full picture
In voice acting, your voice becomes your wardrobe, your props, and your main instrument. It carries the entire performance.
Acting should be learned first, so voice acting is simpler and sounds more natural.
This is the type of actor who works behind the scenes, but skill and professionalism are still needed. The voice must be as convincing as the physical presence. The nuances, fluctuations, tones, tempo, sounds, and exaggeration all tell a story or shape a character. Sometimes, voice actors make a lot of movements to mentally hold imagery and vocally unfold it.
Patience is essential, especially when multiple edits or retakes are needed.
The craft requires:
Voice flexibility
Consistency from day one until the final product
Trust in the process, even when you can't see the full picture
In voice acting, your voice becomes your wardrobe, your props, and your main instrument. It carries the entire performance.
June 3, 2026
My kids and I are loving these kind of books so much. This isn't the first in the series we've read and they all have their own special information to absorb and learn. The voice acting was a great one to read as I feel like this type of work is an unknown for both adults and kids. The work that goes into creating the character and therefore the characters voice is astonishing. It sounds so much more involved than stage or film acting. The concept of the power in one's voice, and all the voice actor's who've done multiple voices, was really interesting to read about. After reading this, my kids went about reading books out loud in a whole new way, just from the tips offered in this, so it is very age appropriate for kids five and older to understand.
June 9, 2026
At first I thought this might be too niche of a topic, but the book did a great job at informing the young readers about terminology (like pace, pitch, etc.) all while inspiring them to go for it. The way the author described what a voice actor actually does was enlightening... even I had never thought of it so deeply. I especially loved the emphasis on imagination and how vital it was for the career choice.
The advice was real, especially noting the harder (sometimes overlooked) aspects of the job while still focusing on the overwhelming positives. The Fun Facts at the end were such a nice touch too.
The advice was real, especially noting the harder (sometimes overlooked) aspects of the job while still focusing on the overwhelming positives. The Fun Facts at the end were such a nice touch too.
August 16, 2026
I love voice actors, not as for cartoons, but audiobook narrators. I did not realize how tiring vocal work can be on the whole body.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews