Wednesday, September 25, 2013

TTW - Audio Books

I frequent several writing forums, and often find great recommendations for MG and tween books. The other day I visited my local library, armed with a list of several books that sounded promising. Unfortunately, they were either checked out or unavailable. Except for one, but it was available only as an audio book.

I've never listened to an audio book, so I thought I'd give it a try. The title of the particular book I checked out is The True Blue Scouts of Sugar Man Swamp by Kathi Appelt, and narrated by Lyle Lovett. The combination of author and narrator sounds intriguing, does it not? I can't wait to get started.

Lately I have been thinking about possibly having Michaela's Gift made into an audio book. I know of other indie authors who have done this. I've listened to a few samples, and I've enjoyed what I've heard so far. I don't know a lot of the details of how it all works, but I think through Librivox, several options are available.

Apparently some fairly well-known celebrities are willing to invest their time to reading and recording books, but I don't know if it's the luck of the draw, or if the author selects from a variety of possible readers. I know some readers are willing to take on a job on a royalty-share, while others want paid up front. It's all quite intriguing to me.

I originally had the idea that I would offer this book to my daughter to listen to first. She's not a strong reader, and we struggle finding books that fit her comprehension level and still offer a read that is mature enough for her tastes. She isn't a child. She's an adult with special needs. I think this book might be a great fit for her. So I'm going to let her start it, and see how it goes. Then I'll start each CD as she finishes it. I think it's going to be a fun experience.

So, I'd love to know how many of you listen to audio books. A friend of mine listens to them at work. I never had a job that allowed for such a thing, but I'm glad it's available for those who can manage it. When is your favorite time to listen? Before bed? While driving? Or during history class? Ouch! I hope not.

HAPPY READING (or listening)

CORDELIA DINSMORE


9 comments:

Lisa Orchard said...

I like to read. I've never listened to audio books. I might some day. Right now when I'm in the car I like to listen to my music and sometimes sing along with it! :)

Cordelia Dinsmore said...

Hey, Lisa. Thanks for stopping by. I'm with you, except these days the kids want to watch movies in the car. Unfortunately, someone stepped on one set of headphones, so I have to keep the movie sound on speaker. It's okay unless they're watching something like "Cars", then I'm a nervous wreck wondering where the screeching tire sounds are coming from.

Alan Tucker said...

My mom used to listen to books a lot when we lived far apart and she drove up to visit a couple times a year. I released my first book in audio this spring and have another in the works. The process is interesting and fun!

Sharon Ledwith said...

I won an audio book and had to download the program to run it, but haven't listened to it yet. I would love to transform my books into audio books, but like you, Cordelia, I need to know more about the process. Great informative post! Cheers!

Cordelia Dinsmore said...

Thanks for stopping by, Alan and Sharon. Sorry I've been AWOL, but my schedule was full today.

I think I'd enjoy audio books in the car, but fear they would distract me too much if I were driving.

Sharon - we need to discuss this more. I know Cornell Deville did this with Lost in the Bayou, and he would probably lead us in the right direction.

J.L. Campbell said...

Hi, Cordelia,
This is one thing I haven't tried yet. Not sure I'd enjoy it 'cause I'm kinda traditional when it comes to book. The ereader is fabulous to have, but I'm not so sure how I feel about audio books. I should try it sometime.

Cordelia Dinsmore said...

Hi, J.L. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to share your thoughts.

I'm not sure, either, if I would enjoy it. But I finally finished A Tale Dark and Grimm, so I'm going to try this one sometime today. Just need to find my earplugs! I'll be sure to let everyone know what I think of the experience. I fear I may be too easily distracted to get into it, but the book came highly recommended.

Anonymous said...

I actually recorded my own book as an audiobook. You can find it here for free. It will play right on your computer. I haven't had investigated marketing very thoroughly, but I'm happy with the new readers this freebie has brought to my series. I should do a how-to post sometime. :)
http://podiobooks.com/title/the-candle-star/

Cordelia Dinsmore said...

Michelle - Wow! Thanks so much for the link. If you decide to do the how-to, please let me know. I'd very much like to learn more about it.

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