Audio books have started to take off in a big way. They are
not inexpensive to produce, so the writer or publisher has to be very careful
what is selected for converting into an audio book. Two keys I believe enhance
this format for making a long commute, vacation travel, or eye problems less
daunting – richness or bluntness in language where either the rhythm or gritty
starkness of the novel captivate the listener. Naturally, the voice of the
chosen reader must be an instrument which enhances the experience.
I’ve picked two examples for my post, one in fiction and one
in non-fiction. I have read both, and know the authors: Charles Gramlich, and
RJ Parker. Just click on their names to be taken to their Amazon Author Page.
Just recently, Charles Gramlich’s publisher picked his
excellent science fiction/adventure trilogy Swords of Talera, Wings Over
Talera, and Witch of Talera to convert into audio books. I believe I know why.
Not since I read Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Mar’s series as a kid have I found
anything comparable. The richness of language in these three books would turn a
hum-drum commute, or long travel into an audio/literary treat, making the time
pass so quickly as to hope the novel ends before the trip. If you love literary
adventure fiction, and want to try out an audio experience, the ‘Talera’
trilogy would be my recommended medium.
RJ Parker, Winner of the World Book Awards 2012 for Unsolved
Serial Killings and Women Who Kill, has all of his serial killer series in
audio format. The starkness of subject matter, non-fiction grittiness of true
crime, and a blunt outlook on the mayhem make these audio ventures a definite
plus as a traveling companion. The added bonus of this spell binding series is
the follow up on each case. RJ Parker pulls no punches on his evaluation of the
hit and miss law enforcement angle arrayed against these monsters who prey on
others.
Because this audio book chapter in publishing is really
hitting its stride, I thought this would be a good time to mention it, since I
am very familiar with these two authors and their works. They provide a clear
illustration of why this relative newcomer into the publishing and marketing
world is here to stay.
Thanks for the kind words. I'm excited to have the Talera books out in that format. I've listened to quite a few books on my kindle and it certainly has its place. Long commutes are perfect for this kind of thing.
ReplyDeleteI have relatives with eye problems too, Charles. They love the audio books. The Talera books in that medium will be super.
ReplyDeleteGood blog Bennie. It seems audio is really taking off and it is become a digital world all around. I've spoken with several people who purchase audiobooks and have learned their reasoning: commuting to and from work, school etc., on subways, buses and the like. Also, many people listen to books when they are in the gym or spa. The best thing about it is whispersync as they can switch between listening and reading. Either will pick right back up from where they bookmarked it. I don't mind telling you and your followers that my audiobook sales average 300 units per month. I've gone as high as 500 and never lower than 250 per month. Yes it's expensive to produce and many authors do a royalty split with the narrator if they have limited cash flow .. I don't recommend this. If you don't have the money finance the first one and pay for production of your other books from your royalties. I broke even after 16 weeks so now for the rest of my life and my kids, our royalties are ours. I've learned a lot this year as a self pubbed author and have helped 22 others do the same. I charge nothing but ask to pay it forward so if anyone wants to ever pick my brain, feel free to contact me. God Bless brother and have a safe a Happy Christmas, RJ
ReplyDeleteGreat info, RJ! Thanks, brother. Merry Christmas!
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