There's a common misconception out there are audiobooks aren't reading. In fact, people go as far to say that audiobooks are a form of cheating. Here's the thing though audiobooks aren't shortcuts, they are actually a valid way of reading whether it be for school or for just for fun. If you're trying to get into audiobooks and want short, light stories YA is always a great place to start. "Harry Potter" isn't the only YA audiobook out there.
1. "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabba Tahir
I've listened to this book so many times I've lost count. While reading "An Ember in the Ashes" is amazing on its own, listening to it adds a whole new dimension. The voice actors do such a great job relating to the characters all to the point where you can feel everything that they are saying. Sabba Tahir knows her stuff and listening to Laia and Elias's story is one of the best ways to hear her words come to life.
Read more about "An Ember in the Ashes" here.
2. "Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
One of the best parts of reading "Everything, Everything" is the illustrations. I mean, when was the last time you read a book with pictures?? Illustrations aside, the first time I read "Everything, Everything" was via audiobook and I was blown away by how they were able to narrate every single element of this book, pictures included. Madeline's stubbornness, Carla's caring nature, and Madeline's mom's desperation come through so clearly in this audiobook. If you're looking for a voice that will captivate you, this is it.
Read more about Everything, Everything here.
3. "The Sun is Also A Star" by Nicola Yoon
Nicola Yoon has some seriously great audiobooks which is why both of her novels have landed on this list. Daniel and Natasha's relationship is spectacular and actually hearing both of their points of view in different voices makes a huge difference. Both characters become so relatable and it really feels like they are talking to you, not just at you. The way this book (and audiobook) goes full circle is enough to make you read it over and over and over again (like I have).
Read more about "The Sun is Also A Star" here.
4. "All The Bright Places" by Jennifer Niven
I know I've mentioned "All the Bright Places" before, but the audiobook is done so well it might actually bring some people to tears. I felt like I was a bystander this story as soon as it started with Finch and Violet on the bell tower. Jennifer Niven's writing showcases some of the best parts of raw emotion. I 100% recommend listening to this before the movie comes out in 2018, you won't be disappointed.
Read more about "All the Bright Places" here.
5. "Anna and the French Kiss" by Stephanie Perkins
"Anna and the French Kiss" might have a mushy title, but the audiobook is actually hilarious and relatable. Anna is spending her senior year of high school in France and while her life is a bit of a hot mess, her frazzled and confused nature makes this audiobook what it is. Anna is just like the rest of us and her inner monologues are enough to make you laugh out loud.
Read more about "Anna and the French Kiss" here.
6. "Eleanor and Park" by Rainbow Rowell
I have a soft spot for Rainbow Rowell, her writing is fantastic and brutally honest. With "Eleanor and Park," the audiobook does a great job of capturing both Eleanor’s and Park’s emotions from Eleanor’s insecurities to Park’s frustration. Rainbow knows how to make her characters both real and relatable, and the audiobook for "Eleanor and Park" highlights her talent.
Read more about "Eleanor and Park" here.
