On the Road

Dear Pat,

I won’t be able to make any of your readings over the next two weeks, but I was wondering. How do you get ready for something like that? I’ve done a little public speaking in the past, and it terrifies me. I can’t help but think that it must be a million times worse if you’re reading your own stuff to a huge roomful of people.

So that’s my question. What does an author do to get ready for a public reading?

Best of luck on your trip.

Dan

The truth is Dan, I’ve wondered the same thing myself.

I mean, I know how *I* get ready for a reading. But I wonder what other authors go through when they’re getting ready.

A lot of authors I’ve talked to admit to having public speaking jitters. Some of them downright hate it. But that’s not a problem for me. Public speaking is old hat. I’ve done commencement addresses, sermons, lectures, and more panels than you can shake a stick at.

Plus I used to do improv comedy. And let me tell you, after you’ve done improv comedy, no other type of public speaking will ever scare you. It’s like a trial by fire.

In general, I imagine other authors think about regular things before a signing tour. They worry about who’s going to show up, or what they’re going to read. Maybe they dither over what sort of shirt they’re going to wear.

Me, I worry about my hair.

At least that’s what I’ve been doing for the last several days. I’m about to leave on a little signing tour, 8 readings in 9 days. I’m looking forward to it, and I’m looking forward to seeing who shows up.

The problem is, I haven’t had a haircut in about 8 months. It’s something that never occurs to me until I have to make a public appearance. Normally every 3-4 months I’m forced to brush up against the edges of civilization. I go to a convention, or a wedding, or something, and so I get a haircut to clean myself up for that.

But lately I’ve been so busy with revisions and the new baby that I haven’t done any of those things. And that means almost a whole year without a haircut. That means that I look like a cross between a hobo, John the Baptist come out of the desert, and a particularly shaggy Muppet. I look, in fact, like one of those green men statues. Except not green.

Normally I’m fine with this. But when I make public appearances I feel bad showing up looking all wodwo. I feel like if people show up to see me, I should try to groom myself down to the point where I won’t frighten small children.

But here’s the problem. This week when I tried to make an appointment for a haircut with the only person I trust to cut my hair and beard… but she couldn’t fit me in to her schedule. And I can’t trust some random barber. Last time I did that the fucker sheared me like a fucking sheep.

So now, the day before I drive off to do my signings, I’m faced with an awful choice. Show up looking like the crazy guy at the bus station, or risk a haircut that would make a prison barber wince. I still haven’t decided…

The other thing that I think about before I go on a trip like this is what I’m going to listen to in the car. I’ve become a sucker for audiobooks lately, and this trip is going to put me behind the wheel for almost 40 hours.

So I’ve got a return question for some of you out there. Do you have any good audiobooks to recommend? I’ve already listened to everything by David Sedaris, Neil Gaiman, and Garrison Keillor.

Here. I’ll start things out with a recommendation or two of my own.

The BBC dramatization of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.

These BBC audio productions of the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy are really great. What’s even better is that they contain different materials than the original books. That means even if you know your the source material inside and out, you can still be pleasantly surprised.

The later ones weren’t done my Adams himself. But I have to say (and this is something that you will probably never *ever* hear me say again) I liked the ending of the final audiobook better than I like the ending of Adam’s original novel.

I know. Blasphemy.

Anyway. Trust me. These are brilliant. Share and enjoy.

Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde.

I listened to this just recently, and I was absolutely blown away by it.

That said, I don’t know how I’d describe the entirety of it to someone.

It’s funny without being goofy. It’s clever without being pretentious. It’s original without being desperate. And it has an element of what I consider the divine ridiculousness: a delightful, subtle, strangeness that is funny while still touching on some underlying truth.

I feel like I should say more about it, but I can’t think of what else to say. Except, perhaps, that it’s probably the best book I’ve read in a year or so. And Sarah really liked it too, if that sways you at all…

So what about you guys? Do y’all have any good audiobooks that you can recommend? I’m going to need a few more before I’m done with this trip….

P.S. I’m asking for audiobooks, mind you. Don’t recommend a book that you liked and you’re thinking *would* make a good audiobook. The narrator makes a huge difference in these things, so don’t tell me it’s good if you haven’t listened to it yourself.

pat

This entry was posted in appearances, audiobooks, Fanmail Q + A, my beard, recommendationsBy Pat253 Responses

101 Comments

  1. GeekGirl
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:21 PM | Permalink

    I really enjoyed the World War Z audio book – there are a slew of actors that participated and it's every bit as good as the book was, imho.

    My kids are in love with the audio book for YOUR book, Pat – my nine year old son has just requested his second listen-through. Though, to be frank, the fellow who reads it has a voice for putting me to sleep!

    • JP
      Posted April 23, 2010 at 11:26 PM | Permalink

      Right place in the comments? Who knows. Listened to a bunch of audiobooks a few years back on a cross country trip. They really do make the time fly. I loved Roddy Doyle’s Paddy Clarke hahaha. Also enjoyed Salman Rushdie’s Moor’s Last Sigh. Wish I could remember more.

  2. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:25 PM | Permalink

    Virtually anything by Christopher Moore, but I particularly enjoyed A Dirty Job. Hysterical, touching, and well narrated.

  3. Michael H. Tritter
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:26 PM | Permalink

    The audio adaption of Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell is the best audio I've heard yet. Well worth a listen even after having read the book, IM(NSH)O.

  4. The_Finn
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:28 PM | Permalink

    i am seconding World War Z. My one gripe is that the quality of the production is so awesome that it makes the other audio books seem kinda poor.

  5. buzz
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:28 PM | Permalink

    I know my comment is going to be completely useless to you, but I'm curious and I'm going to ask my question anyway: Why audiobooks? Why not listen to music as you're driving? I think I'd fall asleep if someone was reading a book at me while I was trying to stay awake driving through Indiana and Ohio (hint: if you haven't before, THEY'RE FLAT.)

  6. Dan
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:28 PM | Permalink

    All the Harry Potter audiobooks read by Stephen Fry are awesome. His voice makes the whole thing feel almost as if your reading it yourself.

  7. Garrett
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:28 PM | Permalink

    The Sword of Shannara audiobook is good, not to mention long if you get the anthology edition. I agree with GeekGirl World War Z is probably one of the best I've listened to, excluding NOTW of course. Then there is A Game Of Thrones, again a nice long one that will keep you busy for at least 20 hours if I remember correctly.

  8. Matthew
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:29 PM | Permalink

    Usually I just read fiction but there are some other worthwhile things out there. Try this one: The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman. You have to deal with Mr. Friedman's ego and his cutesy phrases, but is actually a very interesting meditation on how the global playing field has been leveled by the rise of the high speed internet.

    If you never read them, the Harry Potter books work better for me as CDs than as a reading experience. If you like children's books the Bunnicula series is great.

    Matt

    PS. Visit San Antonio! Warm weather! Great Mexican food! The River Walk!

  9. Feasoron
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:29 PM | Permalink

    The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch is an amazing Audiobook. The story is amazing, the second best thing I've discovered on Audible, and Michael Page does an amazing job reading it. However, like your work, you'll be left itching for the rest of the series to come out. . .

  10. Betsy Hughes
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:30 PM | Permalink

    I really liked both of Joe Hill's audiobooks – Heart-shaped Box and Horns (listening now).

    The readers have been really good and Hill's language is perfect for audio (sooooo delicious).

    I also really enjoyed Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell on audio.

  11. Kate
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:31 PM | Permalink

    I would highly recommend the Vorkosigan series by Lois McMaster Bujold, starting with The Warrior's Apprentice. The entire series is narrated by Grover Gardner, and he does such an excellent job that his voice has become the voice of Miles Vorkosigan in my mind, even though I read them in print first. I also think Bujold's work particularly lends itself to audio format, as she always writes such fun, witty dialogue.

  12. Toby
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:31 PM | Permalink

    The HHG2G audiobooks have been a life saver on the long trips that I've had to do on the yearly trip down to Devon from Inverness. The radio plays are absolutely brilliant. I'd also recommend Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and "The Long Dark Teatime of the Soul" also by Douglas Adams.

    The Radio 4 dramatisation of The Hobbit is a classic and well worth a listen if you haven't already heard it: http://www.amazon.com/Hobbit-J-R-R-Tolkien/dp/0807288845

    I've also got most of Terry Pratchett's books as audiobooks and they've been a great distraction for when the Snotling has to accompany us on long journeys in the car.

  13. Brandy
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:32 PM | Permalink

    Dear Pat,

    Have an excellent time on your trip! Our household is very concerned about the state of your beard, so please, be sure to reassure us it is in fine form.

    As for audiobooks, we highly recommend the Ender-verse, by Orson Scott Card, and Magic Street, same author. Card's books are particularly good, as their are multiple readers.
    Positronic Man, by Isaac Asimov, is also an enjoyable listen, and Heinlein's Moon is a Harsh Mistress is a favorite.

    Enjoy!

  14. Jordan
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:32 PM | Permalink

    well i thought that the audio books for the codex alera series by jim butcher were pretty good but that may just be because i like the books so much. and audio books are great to listen to when your driving, i do it all the time

  15. Coyo
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:32 PM | Permalink

    I seldom listen to audiobooks, but on a long car trip with my niece and nephew discovered the audiobooks of the Harry Potter series. They are brilliantly read/dramatized and make the time fly.

  16. Obdormio
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:35 PM | Permalink

    I'll second "Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell". I also love "Wicked", read by John McDonough, and quite enjoyed "The Edge of the World", read by Scott Brick.

  17. Booknutt
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:35 PM | Permalink

    The Philip Pullman His Dark Materials books on audio are amazing. Full Cast recordings & Narrated by Pullman himself. They were out of print, but I think they're back in print now.

    Also Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane.

  18. Luke
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:35 PM | Permalink

    I LOVE the audio book of Christopher Moore's LAMB. Trust me Pat, you'll be laughing til milk shoots out of your nose. Go for it, and if it doesn't come through I'll send you an awesome souvenir as an apology.

  19. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:35 PM | Permalink

    I know this great book called "The Name of the Wind" … oh, wait.

  20. Rebel Goddess
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:35 PM | Permalink

    If you like Jasper Fforde, his best book was 'The Eyre Affair' (British reader on my version, which is good as the author's British and it's set in England). In it, he posits an alternate universe where Thursday Next, veteran of a Crimean War that never ended, must deal with the theft of original manuscripts of classic novels, first Dickens then 'Jane Eyre'. Acheron Styx, has stolen a device that allows him to enter the book and change things, including killing off characters, which affect every copy in the world. Other science includes Jurassic Park style resurrection of Dodos for pets & Neanderthals just because, and a Time Agency that continually rewrites history. Also you've got to love a book with a heroine working for a Government agency called JurisFiction. Don't go on to the sequels – diminishing returns do not cover book 3's terribleness – but this book is truly unique and truly funny and the reading's pretty good too.

    Otherwise Nathaniel Parker does a great reading of the kids' genius book 'Artemis Fowl' and 'Guards! Guards!' by Pratchett, as read by Nigel Planer, should be mandatory for anyone wanting to understand how fantasy cliches can be made funny.

  21. Orvis
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:36 PM | Permalink

    An audiobook I really enjoyed — all 28 hours of it — was Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke. It's interesting and creates a super-interesting world. I second the comments said above

    As GeekGirl said, World War Z is nice, and one segment is even read by Mark Hamil.

    Beyond Audiobooks, I suggest exploring the world of Podcasts. I particularly recommend two: The Moth for great stories and Stuff You Should Know, for just plainly interesting stuff. There are hundreds of episodes of each, all freely available. For Stuff You Should Know, I suggest the episodes How Muppets Work, What is a Body Farm, Do Zombies Really Exist, and How Noodling Works for a good smattering of lovable, funny, gross, and bizarre. It's good stuff.

  22. Tae
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:37 PM | Permalink

    Radio Drama being the cousin of audiobooks, I recommend just about everything from Decoder Ring Theatre. Their two main shows are the Red Panda Adventures (30s gadget superhero) and Black Jack Justice (post-war gumshoe). There's a good 50 hours of free(!) content between the both of them and are rather fun.

  23. Kathy Kreeger
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:37 PM | Permalink

    I'm going to third (?) the Harry Potter series recommendation – I've not heard Stephen Fry's (aka the UK version) books, but have heard the more likely to be available at your local library Jim Dale version and the whole family loved them. Plus – you won't get through all seven books, despite the trip you're doing. The biggest of them is 23 hours or so.

  24. Ben
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:41 PM | Permalink

    I agree with Dan. Anything narrated by Stephen Fry is a complete treat. I have a horrible time with narrators–they have ruined books for me in the past. I can sometimes still hear their voice when I go back attempt same book myself.

  25. RandomZ
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:43 PM | Permalink

    I've only heard the samples but the audiobook for C.S. Lewis' The Screwtape Letters sounds simply amazing. The incomparable Andy Serkis (Gollum for LoTR movies) voices the main demon, Screwtape, how can you go wrong?

  26. Ian Reutlinger
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:43 PM | Permalink

    I would second the world is flat, especially if you have not read it before. Like the previous poster said you do have to deal with the fact that the author was a column writer which sometimes does make you think that hes repeating himself occasionally, and his ego, but overall it was a great book about globilization put into another light. At least try it and I promise it will amuse you, hope the book readings go great!!!!

  27. jblazier
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:44 PM | Permalink

    I just did a review for The Improbably Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, a John Joseph Adams Collection of Holmes short stories written by modern Scifi/Fantasy/Horror authors. It's read primarily by Simon Vance, who is just short of brilliant. This is the perfect road trip book, because you can listen to a couple stories, and then break to some music and come back to it later. (http://www.fantasyliterature.com/zzassortedanthologies.html#sherlock)

    Also if you haven't already read them, Jim Butcher's Dresden files on audio are an absolute blast. James Marsters reads them, and he is now the permanent voice of Harry Dresden in my head….he's perfect.

    Look forward to seeing you in Cincy!

  28. Alicia
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:45 PM | Permalink

    Anything read by Stephen Fry. His voice is just so engaging – I hate audio books. Hate them with a great passion. But I will listen to Stephen Fry talk until … I can't think of a limit. Although someone here reminded me he did Harry Potter. I'm not willing to subsidise that.

    -A-

  29. Thomas
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:48 PM | Permalink

    I'll second the Dresden audiobooks. Agreed on James Marsters being the permanent voice of Harry as well.

  30. PJ
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:49 PM | Permalink

    I'd say that even if you HAVE read all of the Dresden books, it's still worthwhile to listen to them just to hear Marsters' performance. They're awesome.

  31. PJ
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:51 PM | Permalink

    And for what it's worth I enjoyed Spider Robinson's reading of Variable Star.

  32. Spencer Davis
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:52 PM | Permalink

    Lots of great recommendations but here are a couple from different genres that I've really enjoyed: Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. A great western and a wonderful story about friendship. Also, for something a bit darker, violent and gritty, try Dead I Well May Be by Adrian McKinty. A fun thriller and the narration is top notch. I could listen to it over and over again just to be able to hear that fine Irish lilt.

  33. SJ Stanley
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:53 PM | Permalink

    I'd second Rebel Goddess on Jasper Fforde's other works; ironically enough, "The Eyre Affair" was my least favorite and the 3rd book ("The Well of Lost Plots") was my favorite by far. YMMV. Don't know if it's available on audiobook, but if you can get a British rendering of Fforde's book "The Fourth Bear" from his Nursery Crime series, do not walk, RUN to get it. Biting social commentary, insight, insider references and dry humor like you wouldn't believe. It almost pushes "Well of Lost Plots" out of the favorite Fforde book slot. I'll buy anything Fforde writes just b/c his name's on the cover. Period.

  34. marilenalena
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:57 PM | Permalink

    Ooooh, I am going to have to try the Vorkosigan saga Kathy just recommended! Love those books.

    What I was going to recommend were the books by Roald Dahl (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the Great Glass Elevator) narrated by Eric Idle of Monty Python fame. Sure, they're kids books but Dahl is so delicious! Try to stick with Idle, as the James Bolam version was kind of 'meh'. Also good by Dahl: 'the Fantastic Mr Fox and other animal stories' read by Hugh Laurie, Stephen Fry and Martin Jarvis. You know you're going to want these for Oot in a few years anyway.

  35. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 3:58 PM | Permalink

    Jim Butcher's Furies of Alera has a good narrator. The Temeraire books by Naomi nNvik have an excellent narrator and the story will definitely keep you entertained for 40+ hrs.

  36. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:01 PM | Permalink

    I haven't listened to nearly as many books as I've read but I agree whith Feasoron who suggested Lies of Locke Lamora. The narrator was pretty good, especially considering the story, as you know, is about con men who each play multiple personalities with multiple accents and intonations. He did a good job bringing it to life.

    I don't know if you want that kind of story playing for Oot, though. His earliest memory might be of listening to someone speak of being drowned in a barrel of horse piss.

  37. Erzberger
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:02 PM | Permalink

    Vincent Price has read a lot of Edgar Alen Poes stuff. Those readings were very good in my opinion.

  38. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:04 PM | Permalink

    This may be a bit off the wall . . . but I find Stephen King to make for good listening . . . especially during nightime driving.

    I've listened to all of Davis Sedaris' work as well. You should make sure you've heard everything he has out. I've actually had to pull off to the side of the road because I was laughing soo hard.

    Happy trails

  39. C.S.
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:09 PM | Permalink

    Although rather off the rest of the content proposed above, Daniel Pinkwater's books, read by himself, are fantastic, vastly better than they are in print. His voice is peculiarly well-adapted to the unearthly humor he writes, and somehow manages to smooth over the bits that are so irritating when you read them yourself.

    And although the idea of correcting you makes me shake with fear, Hitchhiker's was actually a radio drama first, and thus the BBC recordings are in fact the source material from which the books were adapted. Little-known.

  40. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:09 PM | Permalink

    Well Pat, you have mentioned numerous times you love Jim Butcher and Buffy.
    (hmm, … that makes you sound bisexual)

    And I think James Masters narrated most, if not all, of Butchers works of fiction.
    (insert a lame doubleteam joke to keep up with the 'Pat the big beardy bisexual' bit)

    Spike being sarcy as Harry Dresden is pretty weird at first, but his voice really grows on you. And the man has great timing, so it's a pretty good audio-show.

    I also support the Stephen Fry audio's. That man can mesmerise with his voice, he really can. His own books or the Potter ones, take your pick.

    Lastly there's these super-audiobook things called GraphicAudio. They use actors and sound effects and stuff.
    (Brent Weeks just had his Night Angel Trilogy done, but it's only out due April.)
    They have a limited selection, but I'm sure you could find some stuff to your liking in there:
    Link: http://www.graphicaudio.net/c-91-browse-by-genre.aspx

    Have fun on your trip!
    Oh and whatever you do, play the audio's you selected to Oot BEFORE you take off. He might not like 'em. And for a 40 hour drive you need to Do Whatever Pleases The Baby at all times.

    Geyter

  41. jonathandanz
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:09 PM | Permalink

    Killer Angels by Michael Shaara is excellent. Few audiobooks have aroused that kind of emotion in me. I would also second the His Dark Materials trilogy.

  42. Lee
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:11 PM | Permalink

    Another vote for both World War Z here. I'd also recommend anything by Terry Pratchett.

    I'm currently listening to The Callahan Chronicles by Spider Robinson and loving the hell out of it. Spider reads his own work and really brings life to the characters.

  43. Jonathan
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:11 PM | Permalink

    Killer Angels by Michael Shaara and the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. Both are well done and moved me like good cinema.

  44. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:13 PM | Permalink

    Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman. I loved it when I heard it without having read it, and I know others who have read it and still enjoyed the audiobook.

  45. Kate
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:14 PM | Permalink

    I would second (third?) the Gentleman Bastards series, starting with The Lies of Locke Lamora. The Temeraire series by Naomi Novik also have an excellent narrator.

  46. Alan
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:14 PM | Permalink

    I recently listened to Steve Martin's "Born Standing Up." He reads it himself, and I found it an amusing and interesting insight into how he got his start.

  47. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:15 PM | Permalink

    I recently listened to "Game of Thrones" by G.R.R Martin on audiobook to psyche me up for the HBO adaption of it coming next year. It is wonderfully narrated and the next two are as well. I haven't listened to "Feast for Crows" but I hear they have a new narrator that is quite terrible, so I'm hesitant to even try it.

  48. darek
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:18 PM | Permalink

    Anathem (Neil Stephenson) is fabulous — with interludes of chanting! — avail via iTunes and elsewhere (my public library had initially… i'm on my 6th time through…)

    Ender… (Orson Scott Card) — broader cast does chapter introductions; shifts lead reader (male/female) when reading sections featuring appropriate characters

    The Prestige (Christopher Priest) — Simon Vance does a fabulous job of 'aging' his voice as the story progresses and slips through time

    H Potter… despite what some may say about their content, the audio delivery is very enjoyable.

  49. logankstewart
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:21 PM | Permalink

    I enjoyed the audiobook of Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell. The things massive, 32 discs and almost as many hours, but the narrator was great and the story one of my favorites that I read last year.

    I'm still trying to think of some sort of present to give you at the Lexington signing. Something to remember Kentucky? Something from me to you? Gah. Maybe a Taco Bell gift card, cause you can't ever go wrong with tacos & burritos.

    Back on topic. I didn't like the narration of Dan Simmons' The Terror. Not sure why, but there was something about the guys voice.

    Be careful and safe on the road. Enjoy the drive. See ya tomorrow. I've spread the word as much as I can.

  50. Been
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:22 PM | Permalink

    If you're a Doctor Who fan at all, I highly recommend most of the 8th Doctor stories released by Big Finish. You wouldn't have thought that Paul McGann would be that great considering the qualitiy of the television movie, but his audio stories show he's absolutely amazing.

    There's two jumping off points for him, neither of which require more than the most basic of Doctor Who lore (He's called the Doctor, he's a Time Lord and travels in his TARDIS). The first is Storm Warning which begins his new adventures with the companion Charlotte Pollard as they meet aboard the doomed R101 airship in the late 1920s. Having just finished listening to the very last one story starring this pair I can say with one or two exceptions I absolutely loved them. http://www.bigfinish.com/16-Doctor-Who-Storm-Warning

    The other point you can start at is the New Adventures of Doctor Who (again starring Paul McGann as the 8th Doctor) which admittedly I haven't listened to yet, but have heard very good things about. They're structured quite similarly to the newer series of Doctor Who, even being split into nice 45-50 minute episodes, the only difference being it's only available in audiobook form. http://www.bigfinish.com/11-Doctor-Who-Blood-of-the-Daleks-Part-1

    Again on the Doctor Who front, there's a lot of spin-off series which are equally amazing, but it helps if you have a good knowledge of the setting to get the most of out it. The I, Davros series brings a whole new depth to the character that really never gets explained very well in the series. The Doctor Who Unbound stories are also a pretty good selection of "What if?" stories, but your mileage may vary from story to story depending on what sort of story you like. Personally I found Full Fathom Five quite chilling. http://www.bigfinish.com/3-Doctor-Who-Unbound-Full-Fathom-Five

  51. Leitmotiv
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:25 PM | Permalink

    NPR is my audiobook, but I'm spoiled living in Oregon. Their programs are great! This American Life, Radiolab, The Moth Radio Hour, Fresh Air, Wait Wait Don't Tell Me, Car Talk, and more.

    Oh and if I could go see one of your book readings I wouldn't mind the author in his natural look. Bring beards back!

  52. Jonathan Entwisle
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:34 PM | Permalink

    Whenever I go on long journeys i always take a few Pratchett audio books read by Tony Robinson, he does them very well, the only problem being they're abridged but still worth listening to even if you've read them. Also "Old Harry's Game" a BBC series about the varied adventures of satan and a group of hell bound mortals is definitaly worth a look into. Not sure if you'll have heard of any of the comedians in it in America but it is very funny.

    Jon

    P.S. Good choice with Hitch Hikers by the way, that lasted us through a two week French holiday.

  53. Chris
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:35 PM | Permalink

    I'm not really into audiobooks that much, but The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is very good. It short (only about 4 hours) but it is very good and something that I pass on to anyone that will listen. A good one for Oot to hear too.

  54. fuzzer_monkey
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:37 PM | Permalink

    Pat a set of stories I loved and ended up getting the book on CD for was Stephen King's Dark Tower series. The best of which is The Gunslinger (book 1) and Wizard and Glass (book 4). If you haven't read them I think they are rather close in type of story to NOTW (though I may have enjoyed NOTW better, I'm just saying) well have a good trip and come to Milwaukee some time :-)

  55. Ken Harris
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:37 PM | Permalink

    The last really good audiobooks I listen to were the Stephen King's The Green Mile as they were released, in serial form, once a month. The narration is excellent and it is unabridged. I know that is a little old now but King isn't one of my favorite authors and I really liked this.

  56. Kristina
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:37 PM | Permalink

    It's a few years old, but America: The Book: The Audiobook (Jon Stewart reading) is funny.

    The Freakonomics and SuperFreakonomics books are a fun listen too.

  57. Anne
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:39 PM | Permalink

    My favorite recently has been "The Strain" by Guillermo del Toro. It's read by Chuck Hogan, which makes it really interesting. Honestly, it scared me, but in a good way. It's very suspenseful, and will definitely keep you awake for a long drive.

  58. Baron
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:45 PM | Permalink

    Second the Larry McMurty suggestion. Something about Westerns are perfect for road trips. And his language is so good.

    Along those lines, I really enjoyed listening to The Story of Edgar Sawtelle. Again magical language, if a tad depressing. 22 hours too.

  59. Nemeslith
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:50 PM | Permalink

    "A Dirty Job". I had hours of laugh with that book.

  60. barclayr
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:50 PM | Permalink

    Try "The Fourth Tower of Inverness" and/or "Moon over Morocco" by ZBS or any in the Jack Flanders series. I may be dating myself here, but I think they are classics with fun characters. The miles fly by and you need to surface at times to see how far you've gone. "Ahh, Feegs"

  61. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:51 PM | Permalink

    I'd like to second the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. I just listened to The Subtle Knife on my eight-hour road trip two days ago! All of the audiobooks are narrated by the author, which made me feel like it was being interpreted exactly how it was supposed to be. The other vocal actors and actresses were wonderful as well.

  62. Rebel Goddess
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:51 PM | Permalink

    Got to concur with Jonathan Entwisle about 'Old Harry's Game'. It's superb – just make sure you buy full series rather than the older selections as the ongoing jokes make more sense that way. Totally addictive, satirical BBC series ("Next time you're sacrificing a virgin to satanic forces, don't use a tortoise. It's impractical and it looks like you're taking the piss"). It's so funny that I've been told to turn it off in the car because the driver is laughing too hard to see the road.

  63. Bill
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:54 PM | Permalink

    I love Jim Butcher's Dresden Files series. James Marsters (AKA Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer) does an excellent read of already great books. I can't read Jim's books now without hearing James' version of Harry in my head.

  64. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:56 PM | Permalink

    I'll add another recommendation for Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell. If you want a series that will take up a lot of your time, you could start on Patrick O'Brian's Aubrey/Maturin series, beginning with "Master and Commander". I prefer the version narrated by Patrick Tull.

    You might also want to listen to "The Bad Beginning", the first of the Lemony Snicket books. The series tends to get a little repetitive, but the first couple are narrated by Tim Curry!

  65. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:57 PM | Permalink

    There's a collection of Poe's poems and short stories available on Amazon read by Basil Rathbone and Vincent Price. The only downside is that it has been recorded had a fairly low volume and the conclusion of "The Fall of the House of Usher" almost caused me to crash my car.

  66. Karen
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 4:59 PM | Permalink

    I am currently listening to Dune narrated by Simon Vance and other cast members. He and the others do an excellent job.

  67. Brent
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:04 PM | Permalink

    Dennis L Mckiernan's Iron tower books are read very well.

  68. nimrodiel
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:10 PM | Permalink

    I'm fond of the Harry Dresden audio's
    They are read by Jame Marsters and are very well done. Exept books 1-5 have audio's released then books 8-11 have audio's released. Books 6 and 7 don't come out until next month-ish.

    Garth Nix's Abhorsen books are great (Sabriel, Liriel, and Abhorsen) audio versions.

    We've been working our way through the audio versions of Dan Simmon's Hyperion Cantos and so far the first two books have been really well read.

    I'l also add a vote towards Christopher Moore's books. I loved the Audio's for A Dirty Job, Bloodsucking fiends, and You Suck.

  69. Wendybird
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:14 PM | Permalink

    First, let me thank you for creating a new list of audio books to listen to on my trip out to meet you while you're on your trip.

    As has been said; Stephen Fry. He's freaking genius.

    Bill Bryson reads his own stuff (which is both uncommon, and in this case, good)

    I'll also add another vote for Christopher Moore, A Dirty Job was my favorite, but they're all entertaining.

    Audio Book are the only way to travel by car. Safe travels!

  70. Michael
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:15 PM | Permalink

    Hey Pat,

    I don't know if you've got an Ipod or an Iphone. If you only have an Ipod, try downloading as many podcasts of 'This American Life' as you can before your trip. If you have an Iphone, there is a 'This American Life' Iphone App. It actually streams every T.A.L. they've ever produced (of course the quality of these streams will depend upon your access to a good 3G network).

    If you're unfamiliar with This American Life, it's an NPR show. I'm not completely sure, but I think it was the show that first broadcast David Sederis.

  71. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:24 PM | Permalink

    Simon Jones reads most of Pratchett's Discworld novels. If you can get your hands on Thief of Time, it's one of the best.

    hope to see you in Frederick
    kristen

  72. Kathleen
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:25 PM | Permalink

    http://www.wpr.org/chapter/

    I love listening to Chapter a Day on WPR when I get a chance…I could listen to him read me a medical dictionary and it would feel like story time with grandpa. Also, they are usually books I never would have thought of reading, and usually end up loving :D

  73. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:27 PM | Permalink

    I would have to recommend Going Postal or Making Money by Terry Pratchett as read by Stephen Briggs. Actually any Stephen Briggs reading Terry Pratchett is great fun…but beware of other readers they are not as a funny and they are abridged!
    If you branch out of fantasy and sci fi and like PG Wodehouse then there are a variety of readers reading his works. Jonathan Cecil is good.

  74. Chapel
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:30 PM | Permalink

    Simon Vance does a GREAT job with Naomi Novik's "Temeraire" series. The first one is called "His Majesty's Dragon" and it got me hooked on the whole series. Each book is a relatively short listen (only about 12 hours or so)but excellent nonetheless.

  75. Little My
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:31 PM | Permalink

    You know, I will read anything by Jasper Fforde, too, but after reading "Something Rotten", I thought, "You know, he kinda phoned that one in. . .or maybe the editor did. . ." All the others were terrific though. Have yet to read "Shades of Grey" but am looking forward to it. I don't listen to audiobooks and thus have no good recommendations to make ("I'm deliberately wasting your time!"), but I read all the recommendations in the comments and am impressed by the likemindedness among we fans. I recently enjoyed "Lies of Locke Lamora" because it was recommended by a commenter here on an earlier post.

    Anyway, here's one of the books I have love love loved in the last few years, though it's not fantasy genre: A Girl Named Zippy, by Haven Kimmel. I can't vouch for any audiobook that may exist (I know, I know, you said don't bother but I cannot help myself; maybe someone else will want to read it). Very funny, a bit sweet and sad and quirky (the engaging kind of quirky, not the annoying one), set in small town Indiana. I submit my other favorite-author-and-book bona-fides: Rothfuss, Pratchett, Gaiman, Sedaris, Fforde, Tove Jansson, Neal Stephenson (everything, except the Quicksilver trilogy, which I had to give up midway, tired of the rambling, said the pot calling the kettle black), Robertson Davies, Susanna Clarke.

    Enjoy the road trip!

  76. Jack Lancaster
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:35 PM | Permalink

    The full voice cast of Deathstalker is pretty darn good.

    And don't get the haircut… I mean, what happens if you get the haircut and have to fight off an army with an ox's jawbone? You'd be sadly doomed to lack that vital spark of Awesome that would allow you to otherwise stand triumphant before their nefarious forces… and then we'd never see book 2. So do the world a favor Mr. Rothfuss – don't get the 'cut – it's just tempting fate.

  77. Phil
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:39 PM | Permalink

    A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson is amazing. It's more sciency than fictiony, but it makes a great audiobook.

  78. Jamey Stegmaier
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:43 PM | Permalink

    The old man reader of Nicole Krauss' History of Love is fantastic. I'm also usually entranced by Malcolm Gladwell's voice (he reads his own books).

  79. Teri
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:47 PM | Permalink

    Oryx & Crake by Margaret Atwood read by Campbell Scott is excellent. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield, also. If you are looking for something big and you don't mind listening to old favorites, Jim Dale does an excellent job at Harry Potter, and Rob Inglis is amazing at The Lord of the Rings.

  80. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:48 PM | Permalink

    I'm sorry, I tried listening to a Harry Potter book on tape and hated it. The reader made everybody sound even more whiny and obnoxious than JK Rowling already did with her writing. I've always found them to be only mediocre though.

  81. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 5:57 PM | Permalink

    okey so you want audiobooks… i will give you my list of good audiobooks…

    Wheel of time <3

    Dresden files <3

    lies of locke lamora

    There is a new edition to Robin Hobb's Farseer trilogy book 1 Assassin's Apprentice in audio book. its very well read.

    Eragon Eldest and brisinger is well read for you in the audiobooks.

    There is a bid of scifi you could hear Star wars. yes i know wtf. but the story goes on after the movie about luke skywalkers life and achievements.

    Artemis Fowl is also well read in audiobook. and quite a fun book to hear.

    There is just one more book to the list i can think of so i will present it with glee and delight to the world. its call (drum's in the background) Krabat i read it when i was young and have never ever read it since but its one of the few books i can still remember quite fairly in my head. Krabat is a wonderful book. and have not heard it on audio book so cant tell if its good on audio book… but have read it. and if you want a good book with magic sorrow and love read krabat. im self mostly for trilogy's so the story can end right. but this one is really good…

    P.S you need to tell os about your book. did you get the draft back and what did she say to it.

  82. Little Red-Haired Girl
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:03 PM | Permalink

    I will add my voice to those who suggested anything by Stephen Fry, as well as Terry Pratchett as read by Stephen Briggs. For something completely different, I have become obssessed with Kerry Greenwood's Phryne Fisher mysteries as read by Stephanie Daniel. They are fun and improbable, and Greenwood's unflappable flapper might be the fictional character I most wish would be my best friend. Have a great trip!

  83. Miss Medicina
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:03 PM | Permalink

    There is a very good reason Jim Dale won a grammy and is in the Guinness Book of World Records for his reading of the Harry Potter series. I've never read the series in book form, because my first time hearing the story was from the mouth of Jim Dale – and his rendition gave more life to the characters than even a movie could do. When I try to read just the text now, I hear the characters in Jim Dale's voice.

  84. kiaras
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:06 PM | Permalink

    I saw it in the comments already, but seriously:

    James Marsters reading Harry Dresden is *excellent*. Worth the listen, even if you've already read them. Books 6 & 7 aren't out yet but I think the first 5 are plenty to get you through 40 hours of driving.

    If they're not though, I also like the UK audio version of Harry Potter. They make me speak in an accent and use the word 'git' a lot, and how can that be bad? (Also: they're child-friendly, because who knows what little'uns can pick up when they're still wee ones?)

  85. GRM
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:07 PM | Permalink

    Any of the Flashman books on tape by George McDonald Fraser make terrific listening. One of the best historical fiction/humor series out there. They're a bit hard to find, but definitely worth the effort.

  86. Todd
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:22 PM | Permalink

    I'd like to be the second "anonymous" to reccommend A Game of Thrones, by George R.R. Martin. It's more medieval than fantasy; but, it's narrated by a dude named Roy Dotrice. He does a good job. I normally can't stand audiobooks, I lose focus way too easily, or, fall asleep. I'm happy to say, I listened to the whole series up to a Feast for Crows. The new narrator sounds like shit, so I stopped, and just read the book from there.

  87. Ashlee
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:24 PM | Permalink

    The Name of the Wind audiobook was pretty fantastic…

  88. Peter Coffey
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:25 PM | Permalink

    I have a few comments on the plethora of comments above.

    First: World War Z was awesome, but I wouldn't force my better half to listen to it. I don't know what your wife's preferences are, but WWZ is no Terry Pratchett novel.

    Second: All the TPratt audiobooks I've listened to have been really disappointing. They've been abridged. This is kinda like a carob brownie. You know it's going to be good, which only makes the disappointment that much worse. Also you miss out on all the annotations, which is really kicking you when you're already down.

    I support the votes for Christopher Moore, Neil Gaiman, Orson Scott Card (Just his writing, not his politics), Jim Butcher, Frank Herbert, Harry Potter, Heinlein… But you've probably already read all of these.

    But my very strong recommendation has to go to Bill Bryson's In a Sunburned Country. I see BB got a few nods in other comments, but I would go to the wall for this book. If you think to yourself "…but A Walk in the Woods was so disappointing…" Give him one more shot and listen to IaSC.

    Lastly: Don't waste your time with The Wheel of Time series.

  89. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:32 PM | Permalink

    Audiobooks. I listen to alot of Audiobooks.

    The Time Travellers Wife (movie was lousy). This has a male and female performer. After 20 minutes of listenign to it, you will be hooked.

    The Lovely Bones (movie for this again sucked). REALLY GOOD. Not really sci-fi. Read the reviews on amazon. Some sci-fi guys may not like this.

    World War Z: This audiobook one a bunch of awards. It is better than any zombie movie you have ever seen.

    Wheel of Time books. It is the same performers all the way through. You probably read the books. I did too and now I am listening to the audio. They get some pronunciations wrong in the first book though, but get alot better as they go on. I like how they do the Seanchen speech.

    The Road: Won a pullitzer prize. It is an oprah book, but don't hold that against it. It also has rampaging cannabels. VERY GOOD BOOK. I heard the movie was average.

    The Accidental Time Machine: This is Joe Haldeman light. Parts of it are very funny. It sort of has the anti-skynet. Skynet wants to kill people. This Artificial Intelligence thinks people are really annoying and shallow and wants to go through time to get away from them. It was very funny.

    Cathedral by the Sea: This is not Sci-fi. It is historical fiction. I am including it because it is so good. If you read The Pillars of the Earth, you will love this book (George RR Martin raved about pillars). I read pillars, so I can't speak for the audiobook.

  90. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:42 PM | Permalink

    Good readers: Nathaniel Parker (a la Artemis Fowl) and Allan Corduner (a la Garth Nix's Keys to the Kingdom series and Marc Zusak's 'The Book Thief').

    Fun audiobooks: Anything by Terry Pratchett

  91. Peter Coffey
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:44 PM | Permalink

    I want to add an addendum.
    I'm plugging the audiobook for IaSC here. I think Bryson makes a great narrator.
    Also, I retract my inclusion of Neil Gaiman in the "probably already read" category, since you stated that you'd already listened to his stuff.

  92. david
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:46 PM | Permalink

    Just gonna give a quick second to a bunch of the productions I've heard already.

    1. Ender's Game 20th anniversary edition: OSC says he considers a fine audio presentation the best way to experience his novels, and this is as good as it gets. All star cast of voices. This book will help familiarize you with some of the best narrators in the business. When you see one of these guys on the credits, you can usually bet that the presentation will be excellent, even if the novel itself is not.

    OSC himself needs no introduction I'm sure.

    2. James Marsters is brilliant at bringing the multiple and multifacited characters of the Dresden Files. I hope this means he'll be making narration a regular part of his career.

    3. Dune: Lots of the same voices here as the Ender's Game ensemble. Fantastic rendition.

    4. Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell: While my feelings are mixed on the story itself (Brilliant use of the language and intricately detailed plot, but I felt little to no connect with the characters themselves), the narration was indeed excellent.

    5. Stephen Fry is indeed teh awesome.

  93. Bagby
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:46 PM | Permalink

    Just gonna give a quick second to a bunch of the productions I’ve heard already.

    1. Ender’s Game 20th anniversary edition: OSC says he considers a fine audio presentation the best way to experience his novels, and this is as good as it gets. All star cast of voices. This book will help familiarize you with some of the best narrators in the business. When you see one of these guys on the credits, you can usually bet that the presentation will be excellent, even if the novel itself is not.

    OSC himself needs no introduction I’m sure.

    2. James Marsters is brilliant at bringing the multiple and multifacited characters of the Dresden Files. I hope this means he’ll be making narration a regular part of his career.

    3. Dune: Lots of the same voices here as the Ender’s Game ensemble. Fantastic rendition.

    4. Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell: While my feelings are mixed on the story itself (Brilliant use of the language and intricately detailed plot, but I felt little to no connect with the characters themselves), the narration was indeed excellent.

    5. Stephen Fry is indeed teh awesome.

  94. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:48 PM | Permalink

    We don't own many audiobooks – no car and they require more money to be spent and can't be 'read' without adittional equipment – but we do listen to the radio quite a bit, especially the comedy programs and we have tapes for some of those programs. I'm just recommending the genre in general though because I live in Britain and I don't know if they're available over there.

  95. Anonymous
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:49 PM | Permalink

    I totally recommend Stuart McLean, any of his CD in the Vinyl Cafe series are supurb. He writes short stories about a small (semi-fictional) family and their neighbours, and then reads them on air. Very Canadian. The motto of the show: “We may not be big, but we’re small.” If you’re not convinced that you want to commit the money to buying one of his CDs, you can always sample it first by listening to one of his podcasts.

  96. david
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:50 PM | Permalink

    Those were the ones that I saw, but here are some that I didn't. If I missed someone I apologize.

    1. Roy Dotrice's rendition of A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin is phenomenal. Some of the periphery characters can tend to get a bit too phlegmy for my taste, but all the main characters (which, being the books they are, is quite a substantial number) are spot on brilliant. I've never heard a better narrator in my life, which is only fitting because the books deserve it. Unfortunately, Roy couldn't Narrate a Feast for Crows, and his abscence is perhaps even more sorely missed than many of the missing characters in that book, but word is he's going to be doing the narration for Dance as soon as it's out. I love these books, and this rendition with a passion I feel for little else.

    (on a bit of a side note, it was GRRM's post about your shared commenter woes that drew my attention to your book in the first place, and I'm so glad it did)

    2. Robert Graves: He narrated I Claudius, Claudius the God, and the Sharpe series by Bernard Cornwell. His shockingly British accent sounds at first brush like I always imagine your Ambrose would sound: Educated, stuffy, slightly nasal, and insufferably superior. However, once you get into the actual story, the range, grittiness, and sheer variety of voices he's able to manage make the story come to vivid life. He's won me over, and he narrates great books.

  97. Bagby
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:50 PM | Permalink

    Those were the ones that I saw, but here are some that I didn’t. If I missed someone I apologize.

    1. Roy Dotrice’s rendition of A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin is phenomenal. Some of the periphery characters can tend to get a bit too phlegmy for my taste, but all the main characters (which, being the books they are, is quite a substantial number) are spot on brilliant. I’ve never heard a better narrator in my life, which is only fitting because the books deserve it. Unfortunately, Roy couldn’t Narrate a Feast for Crows, and his abscence is perhaps even more sorely missed than many of the missing characters in that book, but word is he’s going to be doing the narration for Dance as soon as it’s out. I love these books, and this rendition with a passion I feel for little else.

    (on a bit of a side note, it was GRRM’s post about your shared commenter woes that drew my attention to your book in the first place, and I’m so glad it did)

    2. Robert Graves: He narrated I Claudius, Claudius the God, and the Sharpe series by Bernard Cornwell. His shockingly British accent sounds at first brush like I always imagine your Ambrose would sound: Educated, stuffy, slightly nasal, and insufferably superior. However, once you get into the actual story, the range, grittiness, and sheer variety of voices he’s able to manage make the story come to vivid life. He’s won me over, and he narrates great books.

  98. david
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:52 PM | Permalink

    3. On your recommendation I read listened to The Fairies of Dreamdark and liked it very much.

    4. The Bone Doll's Twin by Lynn
    Flewelling begins a strange tale. It's not without its flaws, but it's strongly character driven, has a well conceived magical system, and managed to entertain me throughout. The narration was well done as well.

    5. Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series was well read. I admit, I enjoyed the first book more than the second, and the second more than the third, but even the third book in that series was better than most any of the books I've tried to read in the past couple years. The narration was in keeping with the books, very well done.

    6. The Temeraire novels by Naomi Novik are among my favorites. Their audio versions are very well done indeed in my opinion. Although I was initially surprised by the lack of bass in the Narator's Temeraire voice, it soon grew on me.

    7. John Scalzi – All of his books are well written and well narrated. Hard to go wrong here.

    8. Although I personally couldn't stand to actually finish the books, it bears mentioning that Ken Follet's Pillars of the Earth was very well narrated. If you liked the books, the audio version will make for a nice re-read. A lot of people I talk to seem to like these books so I thought I'd mention them.

    Anyway, sorry about the novel in your comments section, but you touched on something near and dear to my heart. Any and all of these books can be found on Audible.com. Hope you enjoy them half as much as I've enjoyed your book good sir.

  99. Bagby
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:52 PM | Permalink

    3. On your recommendation I read listened to The Fairies of Dreamdark and liked it very much.

    4. The Bone Doll’s Twin by Lynn
    Flewelling begins a strange tale. It’s not without its flaws, but it’s strongly character driven, has a well conceived magical system, and managed to entertain me throughout. The narration was well done as well.

    5. Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series was well read. I admit, I enjoyed the first book more than the second, and the second more than the third, but even the third book in that series was better than most any of the books I’ve tried to read in the past couple years. The narration was in keeping with the books, very well done.

    6. The Temeraire novels by Naomi Novik are among my favorites. Their audio versions are very well done indeed in my opinion. Although I was initially surprised by the lack of bass in the Narator’s Temeraire voice, it soon grew on me.

    7. John Scalzi – All of his books are well written and well narrated. Hard to go wrong here.

    8. Although I personally couldn’t stand to actually finish the books, it bears mentioning that Ken Follet’s Pillars of the Earth was very well narrated. If you liked the books, the audio version will make for a nice re-read. A lot of people I talk to seem to like these books so I thought I’d mention them.

    Anyway, sorry about the novel in your comments section, but you touched on something near and dear to my heart. Any and all of these books can be found on Audible.com. Hope you enjoy them half as much as I’ve enjoyed your book good sir.

  100. Triskelmoon
    Posted March 16, 2010 at 6:53 PM | Permalink

    METAtropolis is a great audio book of short stories. It redefines what cities and culture could look like…

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