Best Audiobooks of 2023: Booklist Editors’ Choice: Adult Audio

Read by Dion Graham

“Graham, who narrated Harlem Shuffle brilliantly, returns to continue the tale. . . Graham has a deep, melodious voice that pairs well with Carney’s cynical nature. . . The setting, described in gritty detail, becomes a character itself. Whitehead can create a world, and Graham is the ideal guide.”—Booklist starred review

Read by Robin Miles & Tavia Gilbert

“Narrator Gilbert brings to life Eleanor’s personality, characterized by her exuberance and high-pitched voice. Although listeners are likely more familiar with Eleanor, after hearing narrator Miles’ portrayal of Mary McLeod Bethune’s precise, carefully- modulated soft speech, and delightful pronunciation of ‘Eleanor,’ they will be enticed to learn more about her. . . [an]  important, insightful audio that should not be missed.”—Booklist starred review

Read by Julia Whelan and JD Jackson

“Reader Whelan is once again in top form as she spins this increasingly complex web. Her characters are each believably distinct and her reading is flawless. . . A deep-toned JD Jackson voices Omar’s portion of the podcast. This story is riddled with references and excerpts from podcasts which make the audio version especially effective and offers an element of realism that distinguishes it from the print.”—Booklist starred review

Read by Christian Coulson

“Coulson does an absolutely marvelous job. . . The audio is top tier, expertly produced and immersive, and leaves nothing in the way of the listener becoming enveloped in the story. Coulson’s pacing is exceptional.”—Booklist starred review

Read by Edoardo Ballerini  & Maria Liatis

“Elevated by the dual narration format, the performances by Ballerini and Liatis are perceptive and layered. Their voices are the gravitational pull that draws listeners into the lives of vivid and resilient characters.”—Booklist starred review