7 Comments
тна Return to thread

Aunt who introduced me to the unique joy of audiobooks - mostly into scientific non-fiction, fantasy, and anything by Christopher Moore. I'd love to introduce her to a great audio production she hasn't found yet.

Expand full comment

So, I immediately think "Thank You For Listening" by Julia Whelan but that's not the right genre. It is both a great production and a great book for audiophiles though.

As I write this, I realize I don't have a great production in her favorite genres. Bill Bryson's audiobooks are solid. Maybe A Short History?

Expand full comment

How about one of the Terry Pratchett Discworld books? They're fantasy, but often have a sort of parallel reality with the science of our own world. I believe they come in both audio and abridged versions. Some are narrated by Tony Robinson (whose acting career has ranged from the comedic (Blackadder) to the scientific (Time Team), some by Stephen Briggs, new editions are by Bill Nighy.

Expand full comment

It occurs to me that I should emphasise you don't need to start the series at the beginning! The first books are NOT the best. If you do decide to go this way, let me know and I can help you choose one that is right for your friend.

Expand full comment

I once listened to Seven Brief Lessons on Physics and while they were indeed brief, they were so thought-provoking that I had to pause every single one in the middle so I could drive along, cogitating on what the author said. https://www.audible.com/pd/Seven-Brief-Lessons-on-Physics-Audiobook/B01AAYSNFE?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp&shareTest=TestShare

Expand full comment

Or, if brief isn't their thing, The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind. It's pretty old and many parts may have been dis-proven since, but it's still mind-melting in its ideas: https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Origin-of-Consciousness-in-the-Breakdown-of-the-Bicameral-Mind-Audiobook/B00VL15QXS?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp&shareTest=TestShare

Expand full comment

I recommend The Feather Thief! It's a great nonfiction true mystery about a man who stole Darwin bird specimens from the British Museum!

Expand full comment