Audiobooks

I have never been a big reader of books, whether it be a fictional novel, a technical manual or biography. Reading was not a habit I learned as a child and is not one I have picked up during adulthood. For some reason, I would always get bored when reading a book, wanting to skip to the last chapter to see how the story ends.

I now listen to audiobooks, listening to my motorsport heroes' biographical stories from the 80s and 90s. The proliferation of smartphones has made the audiobook more accessible and plentiful. For many audiobooks, the author is also the narrator. But excellent audiobook narration will use an actor with a great voice who can accentuate the characters and words to bring out the real story. And so, an audiobook can be an outstanding performance.

Barack Obama's latest book is heavy going, nearly thirty hours long. I am also listening to more fiction and enjoying the stories my wife has recommended. As you listen to the story, you can imagine people and events depicted in the story, something I rarely felt when reading a book. 

This new format for books suits me well. I am thoroughly enjoying the experience and look forward to listening to many more.