This & That: February 28, 2023

How I audiobook.

Hi there readers!

In this edition of the newsletter, I share a bit about how I finally got into audiobooks, the Anderberg family’s favorite reads of February (including from our 7, 5, and 2-year old), and a few great links.

Let’s get right to it!

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Something I’m Thinking About: How I Learned to Enjoy Audiobooks

Though it’s by far the fastest growing market/format in publishing, I was really late to audiobooks. For a long time I just wasn’t interested. Even when I did become intrigued, I just couldn’t figure out the right rhythm or the right books.

So I assumed that audiobooks just weren’t my thing.

But the impulse to keep trying stayed with me. Every few months I’d snatch up some deal on Audible, download a couple books, and try again.

After a few years of sporadic audio attempts, it finally clicked last winter. I found the right genre, the right routine, and the right tools.

Since then, 10-15% of my reading has been in audio form and I’ve come to really enjoy the experience.

Here’s what has worked for me:

• Genre — I stick with non-fiction. I tried fiction for a while, but found that I was annoyed when I lost focus for a few minutes and something big happened. With non-fiction, it’s less of an issue to miss bits and pieces here and there. Through some trial and error, I’ve also learned that big history books on audio aren’t for me. I just zone out too easily.

• Routine — I quickly realized I couldn’t listen to books with kids around even though I can read physical books surrounded by chaos. I listen to audiobooks while on solo walks, doing mindless chores around the house (dishes, laundry, yard work, etc.), and when I’m driving around town by myself.

• Speed — Though listening at 1.5X speed took a little getting used to, anything slower than that now feels glacial.

• Tools — Audible and Libro.fm quickly get expensive, so I’m really glad I figured out how to get audiobooks through the library. Our system uses Axis360, but Libby is a popular one too. I mostly enjoy that I can try books without committing. I do a lot of experimenting, so if I get one-third or even halfway through a book and decide it’s not working for me, I don't feel like I’ve wasted money.

I’m quite glad I kept trying. Finding my groove with audiobooks has opened a new world of reading experiences and allowed me to take in even more books. What’s your audiobook routine? I’d love to hear!