Do you have a list of books that you want to read that’s a mile long? Never have time to pick up that murder mystery you’ve been craving? Want to re-read that classic that you hated in high school because you think it’ll be better the second time around? Let Audible help you out. Audble by Amazon has perfected the art of the audiobook and has even collaborated with famous actors and actresses to bring beloved books to you either through your iPod, iPad, or other electronic device.
Yesterday, Audible Studios released their latest audiobook, Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë, as performed by actress Thandie Newton. The release comes with perfect timing, since this week would have been Bronte’s 200th birthday. Newton does an exception job of performing the main character, illuminating the timeless story for future generations to come. Who better to express female independence than such an independent female artist as Thandie Newton?
Newton comments,
“I think the reason we’re so struck by [Jane Eyre] is how Charlotte Brontë manages to relate, expertly, what it means to be a human being…and that never changes.”
This Audible book is available through Amazon and Audible currently for $17.47 and downloads directly to your computer or preferred device.
Audible has released three other books on tape in the past two months. In February, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland was released, performed by Scarlett Johansson, and directed by her sister,voice actress Vanessa Johansson. A truly fun audiobook, you’ll be laughing along to the story at every silly event that takes place in Wonderland. Johansson performs exceptionally, throwing her voice for each character, from the Mad Hatter to the doormouse. The awe that Alice feels upon meeting each new friend is evident through Johansson’s performance; Lewis Carroll would be most appreciative.
The second book released in February was Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield, as performed by Richard Armitage. The Hobbit actor has performed for multiple Audible books already and he does not disappoint in this version of the famed Dickens novel. Readers love how Armitage is able to fully form each of the characters in readers’ minds by giving them a specific voice, making the story all the more realistic. Despite the fact that there are over 50 characters introduced in this coming-of-age novel, Armitage performs perfectly.
If that’s not enough, check out Audible’s March release of The Turn of the Screw, a Henry James novel performed by Emma Thompson, with Richard Armitage voicing the prologue. Thompson’s diction is so perfect you can almost see her right in front of you, telling the story of a governess in the middle of a ghost tale. Thompson has performed in many similar classic films and this story is right up her alley. If you find James a difficult read on your own, let Thompson tell the tale to you instead.
Performing for an audiobook is truly an art, and one that has been conquered by popular actors and actresses on recent Audible releases. Check them out for yourself and let us know what you think – leave a comment in the box below or send a tweet to @egyptologist!
