Thought you couldn’t absorb a book through your ears? Think again! Audiobooks are changing the game for avid readers and skeptics alike. So grab some headphones and use these tips to listen to audiobooks and change your reading life forever.
How to Listen to Audiobooks for Beginners
You’ve seen the rise. Everywhere you turn, someone’s talking about their latest audiobook binge. Maybe you’ve been that person, eyebrow raised, thinking, “Could I really enjoy a book that way?” If that’s you, keep reading.
Audiobooks have skyrocketed in popularity for a slew of great reasons. Beyond the convenience of multitasking (think devouring a mystery while doing dishes, making it easier to read more as a busy mom), they bring stories alive in a whole new way. Rich narrations, dramatic pauses, and a storyteller’s flair make the experience immersive and, often, addictive.
Toss aside those doubts! If you’ve ever wondered how to dip your toes into this auditory world or why you should, you’re in the right place. Let’s embark on this audio journey together.
Tips for New Audiobook Readers
Stepping into the world of audiobooks? It’s an incredible journey, but like all new adventures, there’s a learning curve. Here are a few tricks to make your transition smoother and maximize your listening experience.
Try Immersion Reading
Ever tried juggling? Well, immersion reading feels like that, but trust me, it’s more fun. Grab your physical book or e-reader and listen to the audiobook simultaneously. It’s like training wheels for your ears. You’ll get the rhythm, pace, and focus of audiobooks in no time.
Play with the Speed
Who knew that narrators loved to take things slow? If you find your mind wandering because the pace is too leisurely, tweak the speed. Start at 1.25x. Still too slow? Bump it up. I’m cruising on 2x speed now, and it feels just right.
Try Re-Reads to Start
Dive into the familiar. Revisiting a beloved book via audiobook is comforting and less daunting. You already know the plot twists and character quirks. This time, you’re just learning to enjoy it through a different medium. It’s a great first step.
Create an Audiobook Atmosphere
Think about it—when you read a physical book, you might have a cozy corner, a reading light, and maybe even some background instrumental music. Do the same when you listen to audiobooks. Find a comfy spot, pop in your earphones, and maybe even have some ambient sounds playing softly in the background. It’s not just about listening; it’s about creating a whole mood.
Where to Buy Audiobooks
So, you’re sold on the idea of audiobooks and ready to dive in. But where do you start? Here’s a little roadmap to guide you through some of the best platforms out there.
Libro FM
The Indie Favorite. Want to support local indie bookstores while indulging in your audiobook obsession? Libro FM is your best bet. You pay a monthly fee and get one credit per month, which equates to one book per month.
You can then buy audiobooks at a discounted price, and a portion of every sale goes to your chosen indie bookstore. It’s feel-good and book-good all in one.
Libro FM also has a very generous influencer program. When you are accepted, you get access to multiple free early-release audiobooks that you can review.
Libby
The Local Library Hero. Free and fabulous, Libby lets you borrow audiobooks from your local library’s collection. You’ll need a library card, but it’s an audiobook treasure trove once you’re set. The only con? Sometimes, there’s a waitlist for popular titles. But hey, anticipation makes the heart grow fonder!
Hoopla
No Waitlists Here. Another library-affiliated platform, Hoopla’s unique edge is that there are no waitlists. Ever. If they have the title, it’s yours to borrow. The catch? The number of borrows per month is limited.
Audible
The Big Player. Amazon’s brainchild, Audible is probably the most famous audiobook platform. A subscription-based service, it gives you access to massive discounts and one free audiobook monthly. The selection is unparalleled. But remember, it’s a premium service with a price tag.
Scribd
The All-Rounder. Scribd is like the Netflix for books. One monthly fee, and you get access to audiobooks, e-books, and even some magazines and sheet music. The variety is vast, but sometimes the most sought-after titles are “unavailable” to keep the usage in check. Still, for its price, it’s an absolute steal.
There you have it. Different strokes for different folks, right? Explore, experiment, and find the platform that fits you just right. With so many options, the perfect audiobook experience is just a click away!
Listen to Audiobooks and Change Your Reading Life
Diving into the world of audiobooks can be a transformative experience. Whether you’re rekindling a love for stories or finding a new way to multitask, the auditory journey is unmatched. With the right tips and platforms at your fingertips, you’re all set to embark on countless adventures, discover hidden gems, and maybe even find a few new favorite narrators along the way.
As you explore, remember: the beauty of audiobooks lies in their flexibility. You decide the pace, the place, and the platform. So, plug in those earphones, pick your title, and let the narrators whisk you away to another realm. Happy listening!
Book lover, coffee addict, mom of dragons (aka rambunctious kids). I share book recs, mom life survival tips, and the occasional existential crisis.
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