Want to get started with audiobooks but not sure where to begin? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! As someone who’s been hooked on audiobooks for years, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to dive into this amazing world. Let’s start with the basics and then move on to some pro tips to make your listening experience seamless and enjoyable.

What is an Audiobook?

Let’s break it down: an audiobook is essentially a recording of a book being read aloud. It’s like having a storyteller right in your ear! Whether it’s a professional narrator, the author themselves, or even a full cast with sound effects, audiobooks bring stories to life in a whole new way. They’re perfect for multitaskers who want to “read” while commuting, working out, or even doing chores.

How Does an Audiobook Work?

Okay, so how does this magic happen? Audiobooks are typically distributed through platforms like Audible, Libby, or Google Play Books. You can stream them directly or download them to your device for offline listening. Most audiobook apps let you adjust playback speed, bookmark your favorite parts, and even set sleep timers (a lifesaver for bedtime listeners!). The files are usually in MP3 or M4B format, and they’re designed to be easy to navigate by chapter or section.

Things To Do While Listening to Audiobooks

Audiobooks are a fantastic way to enjoy stories while multitasking. Whether you’re new to audiobooks or a seasoned listener, here’s a simple guide to make the most of your experience.

1. Pick Your Audiobook Provider

There are plenty of audiobook services out there, but I recommend All Voice Lab. It’s user-friendly and offers a free trial. When you sign up, you’ll get a one-time bonus of 300,000 points, which you can use even if you decide to subscribe later. These points let you create about 600 minutes of audiobook content—perfect for getting started.

2. Grab Your Gear

You don’t need much to listen to audiobooks—just a smartphone or tablet and a good pair of headphones. Make sure they’re comfortable and portable so you can take them anywhere.

3. Start Slow and Get Comfortable

If you’re new to audiobooks, find a quiet, cozy spot to relax. Use comfortable earbuds, switch your phone to airplane mode, and settle into your favorite chair. Once you’re used to it, you can listen anywhere—while driving, biking, cooking, or even taking a walk. That’s the beauty of audiobooks: they fit into your life wherever you are.

4. Choose the Right Book

Think about what kind of book you’d enjoy listening to. For beginners, plot-driven stories like crime novels are a great choice because they’re easy to follow. You could also start with a book you’ve already read—it’ll help you get used to the format. Short stories are another excellent option. Don’t be afraid to try different genres—you might find you prefer different types of books in audio form than in print.

5. Train Your Ears

Listening to audiobooks is a different experience from reading with your eyes, and it might take some getting used to. Start with short sessions—maybe 10 minutes at a time—and gradually increase the length as you get more comfortable.

6. Find the Right Narrator

The narrator can make or break your audiobook experience. Everyone has different preferences, so give the narrator a chance—sometimes it takes 20-30 minutes to get used to their voice and pacing. If it still doesn’t click, it’s okay to switch to a different book. Explore different narrators and note your favorites. Many streaming services let you search by narrator, which can lead you to books you might not have tried otherwise.

7. Make It a Habit

Audiobooks can fit into your daily routine in so many ways. They can complement your regular reading, become your go-to way to enjoy books, or even turn into a fun family activity. Experiment with different listening habits to find what works best for you.

Audiobooks are all about flexibility and convenience. You'll be hooked in no time with the right setup and a little practice.

How to Choose the Right Audiobook

Picking the right audiobook is key to a great experience. Here’s my advice:

1. Genre: Start with something you already enjoy in print—whether it’s thrillers, romance, or self-help.

2. Narrator: The narrator’s voice can make or break an audiobook. Listen to a sample before committing!

3. Length: If you’re new to audiobooks, maybe don’t start with a 30-hour epic. Shorter books or novellas can be a great way to ease in.

What Are the Popular Audiobooks?

There are many types of popular audiobooks, covering novels, non-fiction, self-improvement, classic literature, and other fields. Here are some audiobooks that have received much attention in recent years and are suitable for listeners with different interests:

1. Novel

Harry Potter series - J.K. Rowling: Narrated by Stephen Fry or Jim Dale, the voice performance is vivid and suitable for fans of the magical world.

The Lord of the Rings series - J.R.R. Tolkien: Classic fantasy literature, the audiobook version is full of epic feeling.

2. Non-fiction

Becoming - Michelle Obama: Narrated by Michelle Obama herself, full of personal charm and emotion.

Atomic Habits - James Clear: A bestseller in the self-improvement category, teaching you how to achieve big changes through small habits.

Sapiens - Yuval Noah Harari: Explores the grand themes of human history, with profound but easy-to-understand content.

3. Classic Literature

Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen: A classic romance novel, the audiobook version is often performed by excellent narrators, full of British elegance.

Final Thoughts

Audiobooks are a new experience, and I highly recommend them. Whether you are a busy parent, a commuter, or just someone who loves a good story, there is an audiobook for you. In addition to the inherent classic audiobooks, All Voice Lab can make your own audiobooks. Just put in your text and choose the reader voice, tone,and language you want, and you can get your audiobook.

Read more: How to Create a Donald Trump AI Voice with All Voice Lab (Step-by-Step)