Book Nook Cafe discussion

Here is the thread to discuss audio books, Podcasts, and YouTube.

Share your thoughts and tips right here. :)

Have you listened to a terrific audiobook? Did you find a terrific audiobook narrator ?

Did you find a great podcast or YouTube about books and reading ?

We want to hear all about it.

I listened to Muriel Sparks, The Bachelor. I could not find it in GR.
2 stars is what I would have given it. The narration was excellent but I did not like any of the character. The plot involved mediums and spritiualism post WW II style and I did not get into it.

Rachel wrote: "I listened to Muriel Sparks, The Bachelor. I could not find it in GR.
2 stars is what I would have given it. The narration was excellent but I did not like any of the character. The plot involved m..."

Is it this one? The Bachelors
Too bad it wasn't a winner. Yay for a good narrator though!

Rachel wrote: "I listened to Muriel Sparks, The Bachelor. I could not find it in GR.
2 stars is what I would have given it. The narration was excellent but I did not like any of the character. The plot involved m..."

Sorry it was only a 2 star for you, Rachel. Usually a good narration will move a book up a star for me.

Rachel wrote: "I listened to Muriel Sparks, The Bachelor. I could not find it in GR.
2 stars is what I would have given it. The narration was excellent but I did not like any of the character. The plot involved m..."

I've never listened to a Sparks novel, but have read several. Her approaches take some getting used to, for me. However, i am usually more satisfied than not with her writing. I've not heard of this one, however.

Here Are The Finalists for Best Audiobooks of the Year

The finalists for the 30th annual Audie Awards, sponsored by the Audio Publishers Association, have been announced. The awards honor the best of the best when it comes to audiobooks. Finalists have been announced in 28 categories, with winners being announced at the annual awards event in New York City on March 4. This year’s awards will be hosted by Amy Sedaris, herself an Audies Award finalist.

Link to article and finalists.

https://bookriot.com/audie-award-fina...

Do Audiobooks Count As Reading?
John Green

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80SCl...

Audiobooks are NOT Real Books 😂LOL

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P3fC...

How very balanced, Alias.

I have come to the conclusion that i am not an audiobook person. Due to the smallish print of my Woodrow Wilson biography (for my Presidential bio challenge), i decided to mostly listen to the book. Combining the two didn't work for me, sadly. Even when i sped up the tempo, i couldn't connect. I tried reading both simultaneously, but that didn't help me remember or take notes.

This sunny month, i decided to try again to just read the printed book. It's working well. After 90 minutes or so, i must quit, due to eye strain, but it's all clicking with me much better.

I tried another audio/print project last year & felt the same, even though it was fiction. I'm guessing i've overtrained my brain...rather, the schools did. I've also learned i cannot do any other task while i listen, i just don't remember what i've heard.

I don't care how people "read" their books, we all have different needs. What i do care about, and see no way to stop, is that many Libby-available books nowadays, are audio only. No print version available for free. It's cut a wide swath in my reading challenges, so i have to make decisions.

Again, thanks for these two angles, Alias.

madrano wrote: "How very balanced, Alias.

I have come to the conclusion that i am not an audiobook person. Due to the smallish print of my Woodrow Wilson biography (for my Presidential bio challenge), i decided ..."

For me my relationship to audiobooks has rapidly changed in the last five years (menopause? Lock down?) before I could not stand to listen to a real book as audiobook, I prefered to read it. Now I prefer to listen, if I can listen in English - in German I prefer to read.

I appreciate your comments, Sophie. It reminds me that when eBooks first came out, i was against them & couldn't imagine reading them. Ding-Dong, i'm wrong. Today, i almost exclusively read eBooks, as i can easily take them anywhere & control the size of the font.

Good reminder. Way back when there were Books on Tape, i listened to some as we drove. It was a good use of our time, when the scenery wasn't impressive. I think that if i listened to fiction (or light-pieces, such as amusing opinion-makers), i would perhaps find audio books on our phone easier.

Your point about language is different than i would have thought. IF i had a second language (which i do not), i imagine i would prefer to "see" in in print, rather than listen. However, now that i think about it, "hearing" it would probably make learning languages, as really used, easier. Clever.

Thanks for sharing your experiences.

It was good for me to realize how much I prefer to listen in English - sometimes I even consider to listen to books written in German in English - which I rarely really do. If it´s the author speaking, I can accept German audiobooks, otherwise, not my cup of tea at the moment. Might change again. French reading goes in leaps, and there I prefer reading, Russian only listening, no reading!

What a talent to be able to read several languages, Sophie.

well, it mainly english and german (shy smile)

Sweet.

Sophie wrote: "For me my relationship to audiobooks has rapidly changed in the last five years"

Same, Sophie!

I admit there was once a time when I might have said audiobooks weren't the "same thing" as reading a book. And while it's not the same, it totally counts.

If I didn't listen to audiobooks, I'd read maybe 2-3 books/month max... likely less.

Plus, now that I've experienced doing dishes and house cleaning while listening to a book, I can't imagine going back lol.

Lindsey wrote: "Plus, now that I've experienced doing dishes and house cleaning while listening to a book, I can't imagine going back lol...."

Color me green. I seem unable to do two things at once. Yes, i can clean while listening to an audiobook, but i have no idea what happened, nor which character is which. Frustration abounds!

Enjoy this ability, Lindsey...and others!

Sophie wrote: "madrano wrote: "How very balanced, Alias.

I have come to the conclusion that i am not an audiobook person. Due to the smallish print of my Woodrow Wilson biography (for my Presidential bio challe..."

Being open to new ideas keeps us from getting stale. Good for you to change your mind. Who knows you may yet change it again!

Lindsey wrote: "Sophie wrote: "For me my relationship to audiobooks has rapidly changed in the last five years"

Same, Sophie!

I admit there was once a time when I might have said audiobooks weren't the "same th..."

Yes, I agree. I listen at the gym or when cleaning and it makes the time go much faster.

Far From the Madding Crowd

This one was a total winner for me. I had read it many years ago and did not really remember it.

Rachel wrote: "Far From the Madding Crowd

This one was a total winner for me. I had read it many years ago and did not really remember it."

I read it years ago too. Like you, I also gave it 3/5 good rating.

Rachel wrote: "Being open to new ideas keeps us from getting stale. Good for you to change your mind. Who knows you may yet change it again!..."

Indeed! You are a terrific cheerleader, Rachel.

Rachel wrote: "Far From the Madding Crowd

This one was a total winner for me. I had read it many years ago and did not really remember it."

This was the second Hardy novel i read, after Tess of the D’Urbervilles, which didn't call to me. This one, however, with its evocations of the natural world and details of life at that time, was eye-opening. I returned to Hardy many times since then, and treasured each one for its contribution to my understanding of those years for those working class people.

Bronshtein in the Bronx

I quite enjoyed this audio book as well as learned about Leon Trotsky.

Rachel wrote: "Bronshtein in the Bronx

I quite enjoyed this audio book as well as learned about Leon Trotsky."

You find the most interesting titles, Rachel. I see it's only around 200 pages. I'm going to put it in my TBR notebook.

Thanks for the title, Rachel. I know a bit about Trotsky but the idea of an idealist in NYC during those years intrigues me.

Presently i'm reading a biography of Woodrow Wilson, whose presidency was during the time your book covers. There is plenty of mention about the socialist/communist communities but not the angst present during those money-eager years. This will be a good follow up. I'm glad it worked for you & that you shared here, Rachel.

Free: A Child and a Country at the End of History

This is a wonderful book. It pulled at my heartstrings at the same time I learned a great deal about Albania.

Rachel wrote: "Free: A Child and a Country at the End of History

This is a wonderful book. It pulled at my heartstrings at the same time I learned a great deal about Albania."

Very nice review, Rachel. The book sound very insightful. I'm not surprised as I see the author, Lea Ypi, is professor in political theory at London School of Economics.

This sounds very good, so i've added it to my TBR. Thanks for the thoughtful review, Rachel, as it made the difference.

Sophie wrote: "It was good for me to realize how much I prefer to listen in English - sometimes I even consider to listen to books written in German in English - which I rarely really do. If it´s the author speak..."

Sophie I am impressed by your multi language skills.

Shred Sisters

This was a great listen. I was sorry when it ended.

I think it is a high compliment when a reader states s/he's sorry to see it end. It sounds good and other GR readers agree with you. Thanks for sharing the title with us, Rachel.

Barbra Streisand, Whoopi Goldberg, Kate McKinnon Among Audie Award Winners: See the Full List!

https://people.com/audie-award-announ...

While i congratulate these winners, i am compelled to ask whether or not actors have a big edge in the "competition" for audio awards.

Some of you may recall that my daughter recorded her own book and came to realize the efforts involved, including regulating one's meals, so the stomach rumbles weren't heard on the recording. So, these aren't easy but my guess is film stars would have much more practice.

ANYway, just thought i'd share my ponderings. Again, it doesn't matter, as long as everyone is getting paid, eh?

I think a celebrity name also brings listeners to a project that might otherwise get overlooked.

My current audio book, Healthy Brain, Happy Life is read by the author, Dr. Wendy Suzuki. She is a neuroscientist and teaches at New York Univ. I have to say she is an excellent narrator. She modulates her voice well and is very clear.

I agree about name recognition helping sales.

I cannot even get my voice to enunciate well enough to use the mic on my iPod.

Hi book lovers! I wanted to share some podcasts I've been watching lately, and I hope it can help you too!

A better you podcasts by Fernanda Ramirez
🎀 This podcast talks about all things becoming your best self in terms of your mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social health. She also talks about topics covering lifestyle, wellness, self care, and overall about navigating your life. I've been loving her podcasts channel in her YouTube and also on Spotify app. I hope you also like her videos and it also helps you!🌻💌💋
Here is her latest YouTube video: https://youtu.be/K3uPghuvfFo?si=3qzVu...

Thanks, Patricia.

I listen to podcasts and YouTube every day.

BBC Audio Drama Award winners announced along with plans for new monthly 90-minute play on BBC Radio 4

https://www.bbc.com/mediacentre/2025/...


Full List of Winners of the 2025 Audio Drama Awards:
• Best Original Single Drama: The Invitation by Katherine Chandler, produced by John Norton, for BBC Audio Wales & West. Special commendation for Nearly Light by Kit Withington, produced by Jelena Budimir at Naked Productions for BBC Radio 4.

• Best Original Series or Serial: Life Lines by Al Smith, produced by Sally Avens at BBC Studios Audio London for BBC Radio 4.

• Best Adaptation: Tam O’Shanter by Robert Burns, adapted by Gary McNair, produced by Kirsty Williams for BBC Audio Scotland. Special commendation for Love and Information by Caryl Churchill, produced by Mary Peate and Jessica Dromgoole at Hooley Productions for BBC Radio 4.

• Best Actor: Sean Bean for his role in Antigone, directed by Pauline Harris at BBC Studios Audio London for BBC Radio 3.

• Best Actress: Cecilia Appiah for her role in Oleanna, directed by Gary Brown for BBC Studios Audio Salford. Special commendations for Michelle Fairley in Hello, I Appear to Have Killed My Husband, directed by Kirsty Williams for BBC Audio Scotland, and Kate O’Flynn in Spores, directed by Nicolas Jackson at Afonica for BBC Radio 3.

• Best Comedy Performance: Rosie Cavaliero in The Train at Platform 4, produced by James Robinson at BBC Studios Audio for BBC Radio 4.

• The Marc Beeby Award for Best Debut Performance: Mae Munuo in Tribe of Two, directed by Jesse Fox at Afonica for BBC Radio 4.

• Best Sitcom or Comedy Drama: Rum Punch by Travis Jay, produced by Daisy Knight at Avalon for BBC Radio 4.

• Best Stand Up or Sketch Comedy: Janey Godley: the C Bomb Series 2 by Janey Godley with Ashley Storrie, produced by Richard Melvin at Dabster Productions for BBC Radio 4. Special commendation for Munya Chawawa’s Election Doom Scroll by Munya Chawawa, Matthew Crosby, James Farmer, and Joe McArdle, produced by Jo Maney and Ben Wicks at Expectation TV for BBC Radio 4.

• Best Use of Sound: Restless Dreams, sound by Eloise Whitmore, produced by Eloise Whitmore and Polly Thomas at Naked Productions for BBC Radio 4.

• Best Podcast Audio Drama: The Skies Are Watching, written and produced by Jon Frechette and Todd Luoto at Goldhawk Productions for BBC Radio 4. Special commendation for Central Intelligence by Greg Haddrick, produced by John Scott Dryden and Emma Hearn at Goldhawk Productions, and executive-produced by Howard Stringer and Jeremy Fox, for BBC Radio 4. Central Intelligence also received an Outstanding Contribution Award.

• Best European Drama: The Fall of Lapinville by Benjamin Abitan, produced by Chloé Asous-Plunian for Arte Radio, France.

• Imison Award: Tether by Isley Lynn, produced by Fay Lomas at BBC Audio Wales and West for BBC Radio 4.

• Tinniswood Award: Man Friday by Edson Burton, produced by Mary Ward-Lowery at BBC Audio Wales and West for BBC Radio 4.

The Sheltering Sky

This audio book was super well narrated. Published in 1949 there is a metaphysical aspect to it. The patronizing and racist attitudes were hard for me to deal with. I liked but did not love this one.

Rachel wrote: "The Sheltering Sky

This audio book was super well narrated. Published in 1949 there is a metaphysical aspect to it. The patronizing and racist attitudes were hard for me to deal with..."

I read that one years ago and really enjoyed it.

Rachel wrote: "The Sheltering Sky

This audio book was super well narrated. Published in 1949 there is a metaphysical aspect to it. The patronizing and racist attitudes were hard for me to deal with..."

I came to this book after seeing the film, which starred Debra Winger. Both are uneasy experiences, i must say. I suppose i expected more from a book set in Africa.

Mostly, to have read it makes me feel good, even if i didn’t love it. You review was thoughtful, Rachel.

Rachel wrote: "The Sheltering Sky

This audio book was super well narrated. Published in 1949 there is a metaphysical aspect to it. The patronizing and racist attitudes were hard for me to deal with..."

I read the print book and saw the movie too. Like Rachel I liked but did not love the book, which was disappointing because I really wanted to love it. The stereotypes and racism I accepted because...1949. People write what they know. I try to keep perspective on the time and place the writing occurred in.

The book is semi-autobiographical. Paul Bowles moved to Tangier after visiting it on the suggestion of Gertrude Stein. He traveled with Aaron Copland. His wife Jane joined him in Tangier after he moved here. They had an unconventional marriage and it is rumored they both had homosexual affairs. He wrote the book in small African hotels that made their way into the narrative.

*I heard most of this on the Backlisted podcast and used Wikipedia to confirm what I remembered from the podcast

Thank you, Denise, for fleshing him out for us.

‘AudioFile’ Magazine Announces 2025 Golden Voice Award Winners

AudioFile magazine has named the three winners of its annual Golden Voice awards, which honor voice actors who have made significant contributions to audiobook publishing. The recipients are Vikas Adam, Kimberly Farr, and Hillary Huber.

~~Full article
https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/b...

Audiobook Sales Rose 13% in 2024, to $2.2 Billion

Audiobook sales returned to a double-digit growth rate in 2024, increasing 13% over 2023, according to the just-released Audio Publishers Association Sales Survey.

As usual, general fiction accounted for the largest share of revenue by genre with sales up 16% over 2023. Sales in the romance category jumped 30% in the year, while sales of science fiction/fantasy rose 21%. Both categories saw big gains in print sales last year, reflecting the continued popularity of romantasy. Audiobook sales have traditionally been much higher in the adult segments than in the children’s categories, but the report found that sales in the children’s/young adult segment rose 26% last year.

~~ full article
https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/b...

Good news for audiobook fans, all around. Kudos to the award winners.

I was just looking for some books online for my son and ran into a number which are only offered in audio or Kindle. Like his nerdy mom, he only wants paper, so he's SOL, as we used to say. Sorta Outta Luck.

madrano wrote: "I was just looking for some books online for my son and ran into a number which are only offered in audio or Kindle. Like his nerdy mom, he only wants paper, so he's SOL, as we used to say. Sorta Outta Luck. ..."

Really? I've never run into that situation. Actually the opposite. For older books only paper as they weren't updated to an eBook.

Like you, i've seen the non-ebook, for older titles. To be fair, in my case, this was "Star Trek", which probably makes a difference. lol

Lady Windmere’s Fan

I just listened to this very short but totally delightful book of Oscar Wilde's. Someone on GR recommended the book a few months ago. I completely enjoyed this one.