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10 Best audiobooks 2025 in the United States

#2
#7
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Book 1

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,345
Narrator Performance

Most important from
146881 reviews

Narrator Performance
Jim Dale's narration brings the characters and magical world to life, making the story even more captivating.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Book 1, is a popular choice in audiobooks, especially for children and fans of fantasy and magic. The narrator, Jim Dale, is well-known for his engaging performance, bringing the characters and magical world to life with his voice. This can significantly enhance the listening experience, especially for younger audiences. The audiobook runs for a substantial 8 hours and 18 minutes, which is a good length that can occupy several listening sessions, making it convenient for long trips or daily commutes.

Being in the fantasy and magic genre, it appeals to both children and adults who enjoy imaginative and adventurous stories. The format is unabridged, meaning the entire text is included, ensuring you don't miss any part of the story. It’s available in English, making it accessible to a wide audience. On the downside, the long listening length might be a bit overwhelming for very young children or those with shorter attention spans. Additionally, while Jim Dale's narration is generally praised, some listeners might prefer a different style or voice.

If you are new to audiobooks or looking for a captivating fantasy story for children, this audiobook is a strong contender with its high ranking in Audible Books & Originals.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,345
Narrator Performance

Most important from
146881 reviews

Narrator Performance
Jim Dale's narration brings the characters and magical world to life, making the story even more captivating.
#2

The Women: A Novel

The audiobook 'The Women: A Novel' is a compelling choice for fans of historical and coming-of-age fiction. It is an unabridged version, ensuring that you get the complete story as intended by the author, Kristin Hannah. The listening length is nearly 15 hours, which is substantial and should provide an immersive experience for listeners who enjoy longer narratives.

The audiobook is narrated by Julia Whelan and Kristin Hannah, both of whom are well-regarded narrators in the field. This dual narration could add depth to the storytelling, making it more engaging and dynamic. The audiobook ranks highly in multiple categories, including Coming of Age Fiction and Historical Fiction, indicating its popularity and positive reception among listeners.

It is available in English and can be easily accessed through Audible, with features like Whispersync for Voice, which allows seamless switching between reading and listening. The length might be daunting for some listeners who prefer shorter audiobooks. Additionally, those who are not fans of historical or coming-of-age genres might not find this audiobook appealing. If you are looking for a well-narrated, engrossing story set in a historical context, 'The Women: A Novel' could be a great addition to your audiobook collection.

#3

Kobo Libra Colour | eReader | 7" Glare-Free Colour E Ink Kaleido 3 Display | Dark Mode Option | Audiobooks | Waterproof (Black)

The Kobo Libra Colour is a versatile eReader designed for a rich reading experience with its 7-inch glare-free colour E Ink Kaleido™ 3 display. It supports audiobooks, which is a significant plus if you enjoy switching between reading and listening. With 32GB of storage, this device can hold up to 150 audiobooks, making it suitable for avid listeners. The Kobo Plus subscription offers unlimited access to a vast library of eBooks and audiobooks, adding value for those who consume a lot of content.

The device is waterproof, allowing you to use it confidently near water, and its ergonomic design includes page-turn buttons and customizable font sizes, enhancing usability. However, there are a few potential drawbacks. The 4-hour battery life may be limiting for long listening sessions, and since the narrator performance will depend on the specific audiobook, it's not guaranteed to meet everyone's standards. Additionally, while the device supports multiple formats and genres, accessing some content may require additional purchases or subscriptions.

The Kobo Libra Colour stands out as a feature-rich option for those who want a multifunctional eReader that can also handle audiobooks effectively.

Buying Guide for the Best audiobooks

Choosing the right audiobook can greatly enhance your listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned audiobook listener or new to the format, understanding the key aspects of audiobooks will help you make an informed decision. Consider factors such as the narrator's performance, the length of the audiobook, the genre, and the format. By paying attention to these details, you can ensure that the audiobook you choose aligns with your preferences and listening habits.
Narrator PerformanceThe narrator's performance is crucial because it can make or break your listening experience. A good narrator brings the story to life, using different voices for characters and appropriate intonation to convey emotions. When choosing an audiobook, listen to a sample of the narrator's voice. If you find their voice engaging and pleasant, it's likely you'll enjoy the audiobook. If the narrator's style doesn't appeal to you, it might be best to look for another version of the book with a different narrator.
Length of the AudiobookThe length of an audiobook is important as it determines how much time you'll need to invest in listening. Audiobooks can range from a few hours to over 20 hours. If you have limited time or prefer shorter listening sessions, opt for audiobooks that are under 10 hours. For those who enjoy long, immersive experiences, longer audiobooks might be more suitable. Consider your daily routine and how much time you can realistically dedicate to listening when choosing the length of an audiobook.
GenreThe genre of the audiobook is a key factor in ensuring you enjoy the content. Audiobooks come in various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, mystery, romance, science fiction, and more. Think about what types of stories or topics you enjoy the most. If you're new to audiobooks, starting with a genre you already love in print or film can be a good way to ease into the format. Exploring different genres can also be a fun way to discover new interests.
FormatAudiobooks are available in different formats, such as digital downloads, CDs, and streaming services. Digital downloads are convenient for listening on smartphones, tablets, or e-readers, and they allow you to carry multiple audiobooks without physical bulk. CDs might be preferred by those who like to listen in their car or on a CD player. Streaming services offer a vast library of audiobooks for a subscription fee, which can be cost-effective if you listen to audiobooks frequently. Choose the format that best fits your lifestyle and listening habits.

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