Writing – Audiobooks

It has always been my intention to put out “Shorts” as an audiobook. Given my background in spoken communication (theatre, radio, teaching, and preaching), it seems an obvious next step. The question has always been “how” as much as “when”. I’m in the process of learning the how even as I speak.

I’m lucky to have a veteran audiobook narrator close at hand. K Orion Fray is a wonderful author (check out “Son of the Revolution” in both e-book and paperback) and has been doing audiobooks for several years. So, I turn to Rion with all my noob questions.

As it turns out, that’s been a lot of questions!

The actual physical setup and process of recording is easy. I’ve used a home studio for years now and have it set up to work beautifully. So, with Rion’s help, I am moving forward as a narrator.

Just not on my book.

The plan had been to do mine first. Make all the mistakes on my own book then do someone else’s. Before I could get started, an offer came in to do a different book. Since the goal is to do this as part of my routine (and maybe make a few bucks at it), I didn’t see any way to refuse.

So, am I making all my mistakes on this book? Yes. I’m also being hyper-vigilant to make sure what goes through to the author is as perfect as I can make it. He seems happy so far!  Once we’re a little closer to releasing the book, and with his permission, I will share the title and a link.

I have not always been a fan of audiobooks. Having people read to me lost its allure years ago. First, because I read faster than folks read aloud. So, I’m constantly wanting them to hurry up! Second, (here comes the ego) I’m a better public reader than most people. Given my training and career, I should be. So, I hate listening to bad reading.

A few years ago, I had to make long drives several times a year as part of my job. Driving along the NY/PA border is beautiful but there’s not much interesting radio out there. So, I borrowed a book on disc from the Prendergast Library. What a perfect way to pass hours of time on the road! The miles just rolled away and gave me a reason to look forward to those hours on the highway. On one trip I pulled into my driveway with 15 minutes left! I sat in the driveway ‘til I heard the end of “The Spy Who Came in From the Cold.” I was hooked.

Conventional wisdom says an author should never voice their own books. If you check back under my ego items, you’ll find why I’m planning to ignore that dictum.

Peace

JD