I am one of those who loves a good book and a good reading nook to lock myself in, taking in the aroma of the pages, feeling the fonts against my skin, surrounded by the invisible barbed wires of plotlines, and characters that feel incredibly like me. But sure, call me a hypocrite as I do like indulging myself in the occasional audiobook from time to time, thanks to the innumerable book clubs I am a part of, all the book-loving friends I have gathered over the years, and the fact that I live alone. I need some constant noise to keep my solitude company.
For me, audiobooks fill the space between 'white noise' and 'entertainment,' something I listen to when I'm cooking, on a drive, or even better, in the metro when someone starts talking. They are a world of their own, helping you build and imagine characters and actions. They aren't here to replace books, but for me, these are creations that amplify their effect. Imagine Jim Dale taking you to Hogwarts or crying to Matthew Perry narrating his autobiography.
Now, if this short essay did not convince you to give audiobooks a try, here's a list of the top audiobooks I have been recommended by my book-loving friends. Do note that this recommendations list does not undermine the written word but must be seen as a list of experiences that enhance it.
