6 best audiobooks of all time
For most book lovers, there’s nothing quite like poring over the written word while cuddled up in bed with a warm cuppa, but for those times you can’t read a physical book (or simply don’t feel like it), you can’t go past audiobooks.
Narrated by some of the entertainment world’s best and most recognisable voices, here are six audiobooks that will utterly transport you.
1. The Spire written by William Golding, read by Benedict Cumberbatch
From the author of The Lord of the Flies comes this hypnotic audio version of his 1964 fable, The Spire, set in medieval Salisbury and recorded by Sherlock’s Benedict Cumberbatch.
You can listen to a spine-tinglingly good sample here and buy it here.
2. Home: A Memoir of My Early Years written and read by Julie Andrews
Made even more charming by being read by the lady herself, Julie Andrew’s fascinating memoir of her life before fame, up until she was discovered by Walt Disney in 1962, will enthral you.
You can listen to a sample and buy it for yourself here.
3. The Harry Potter series written by J.K. Rowling, read by Stephen Fry
Revisit the magic of the Harry Potter series as read by the inimitable Stephen Fry. Worth every cent, this set makes a wonderful gift for the kids in your life – or even the adults.
Buy the complete collection here or start with book one here.
4. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time written by Mark Haddon, read by Ben Tibber
The 15-year-old narrator of this popular, quirky audiobook (which was written from the perspective of a 15-year-old boy with Asperger’s) has been praised for its ability to bring the story to life.
Listen to a brilliant extract here and click here to buy it.
5. The Handmaid’s Tale written by Margaret Atwood, read by Claire Danes
The TV adaptation has been a breakout hit, but there’s nothing quite like the original. Homeland actress Claire Danes gives a stirring performance in this award-winning audio version.
Click here to listen to a sample and here to buy it.
6. The End of the Affair written by Graham Greene, read by Colin Firth
Who wouldn’t want to be read to by Colin Firth? The Oscar-winning actor gives a rousing performance in this audiobook about a torrid love affair set in post-WWII London.
To hear a sample and to buy it, click here.
Tell us in the comments below, are you a fan of audiobooks? Which is your favourite?