Although I have had a lifelong affair with print books, the digital age has made it even easier to enjoy more stories via audio books. No more big boxes of cassette tapes or CD sleeves. With such wonderful systems such as Audible, Hoopla and Overdrive you can listen to a huge variety of genres. Stories keep me going while I drive, do chores and even as way to lull me to sleep, thanks to timers. Have insomnia or rage rage? Fret no more!
Narrators make all the difference with audio books. A great narrator can bring a mediocre plot to life. Unfortunately, a poor narrator can ruin even the best book. Thank goodness that does not happen often. There are a huge number of voice actors who are renowned for their talents. Some of my favorites are Barbara Rosenblatt who brought Goldie Bear to life for me, as well as Amelia Peabody; the late Robert Muller who did many of Stephen Kings novels, especially the Dark Tower series; and Dick Hill whose voice I instantly recognize with its intensity, which adds suspense to mysteries and thrillers.
My one of my recent audio books was SLEEPING BEAUTIES by Stephen and Owen King. It is amazing that two men can channel the voices and spirits of so many different female characters.
THE BOOKSHOP OF YESTERDAYS by Amy Meyerson is another just finished audio book. The narrator, Ann Marie Gideon, is new to me, but does a masterful job of voicing both the female and male characters. The story was different from what I expected from the title. It is a lyrical, often heartbreaking tale, of how secrets and choices can have a ripple effect through families and friends.
Roberta Reads 