In the world of literature, memoirs hold a special place. They offer a unique window into someone’s life, often revealing intimate details and profound insights. But when these memoirs are transformed into audiobooks, they take on a new dimension. The narration breathes life into the words, making the stories more immersive and personal. In this article, we delve into the realm of memoir audiobooks, exploring ten of the best ones available. From tales of triumph and tragedy to stories of love and loss, these audiobooks offer a diverse range of experiences.
1. Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson
Summary
“Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things” is an audacious and hilarious memoir by Jenny Lawson, also known as The Bloggess. The audiobook is narrated by the author herself, which adds a personal touch and authenticity to the narration. The book delves into Lawson’s experiences with mental illness, using humor and wit as a coping mechanism. The audiobook runs for approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, providing an immersive and engaging listening experience.
Review
Listening to “Furiously Happy” is like having a heart-to-heart conversation with a close friend who isn’t afraid to share their deepest fears and anxieties, but does so with a sense of humor that is both disarming and endearing. Lawson’s narration is raw and real, her voice resonating with emotion, making the listener feel every high and low along with her. Her storytelling is engaging, filled with anecdotes that are both hilarious and heart-wrenching.
The audiobook format of “Furiously Happy” enhances the overall experience. Lawson’s narration brings her words to life, her tone and inflection adding depth to her stories. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing the listener to fully absorb the gravity of Lawson’s experiences while also appreciating her unique brand of humor.
What We Loved
We loved the authenticity of Lawson’s narration. Her voice, filled with emotion, brings a level of intimacy to the audiobook that a print version simply can’t match. Her humor, often self-deprecating and always sharp, is a highlight of the audiobook. It’s refreshing to see mental health discussed so openly and honestly, yet with a lightness that makes it accessible.
The production quality of the audiobook is also commendable. The sound quality is excellent, and Lawson’s clear and articulate narration makes for an enjoyable listening experience.
What We Didn’t Like
While Lawson’s humor is one of the highlights of the audiobook, it might not be for everyone. Some listeners might find her humor too irreverent or her anecdotes too personal. Additionally, the book doesn’t follow a linear narrative, which might be disorienting for some listeners.
Despite these minor issues, “Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things” is a memorable audiobook that offers a unique perspective on living with mental illness. It’s a testament to the power of humor and the resilience of the human spirit.
2. “Anything” by David Sedaris
Summary
“Anything” by David Sedaris is a collection of essays that are both humorous and poignant, narrated by the author himself. Sedaris, known for his wit and sharp observational humor, brings his unique voice to the audiobook, creating an intimate and engaging listening experience. The audiobook spans several hours of content, with each essay varying in length and topic, but all tied together by Sedaris’s distinctive storytelling style. The essays cover a wide range of topics, from the mundane to the profound, all delivered with Sedaris’s trademark humor and insight.
Review
Sedaris’s narration is a key element of the audiobook’s charm. His delivery is natural and engaging, making the listener feel as if they are sitting across from him at a coffee shop, engrossed in his stories. His voice, filled with warmth and humor, brings his essays to life, adding an extra layer of depth to his words.
The essays in “Anything” cover a wide range of topics, but they all showcase Sedaris’s ability to find humor and meaning in everyday life. His observations are sharp and insightful, often revealing deeper truths about human nature and society. Whether he’s discussing a funny anecdote from his childhood or reflecting on more serious topics, Sedaris’s essays are always engaging and thought-provoking.
What We Loved
We loved the intimacy and authenticity of Sedaris’s narration. His voice, filled with warmth and humor, brings his essays to life, adding an extra layer of depth to his words. We also appreciated the range of topics covered in the essays. From the mundane to the profound, Sedaris’s observations are always sharp and insightful, revealing deeper truths about human nature and society.
What We Didn’t Like
While Sedaris’s humor and insight are undeniable, some listeners might find his style a bit too dry or sarcastic at times. Additionally, the wide range of topics covered in the essays, while generally a strength, can sometimes make the audiobook feel a bit disjointed. Despite these minor issues, “Anything” by David Sedaris is a compelling and entertaining listen that showcases the author’s unique voice and perspective.
3. “Wow, No Thank You” by Samantha Irby
Summary
“Wow, No Thank You” is a collection of essays by Samantha Irby, a renowned blogger and essayist. The audiobook is narrated by the author herself, which adds a personal touch and authenticity to the narration. Irby’s essays are a mix of humor, wit, and raw honesty, covering a wide range of topics from her personal life to societal observations. The audiobook runs for approximately 10 hours and 33 minutes, providing an immersive and engaging listening experience.
Review
Irby’s narration is raw and real, her voice resonating with emotion, making the listener feel every high and low along with her. Her storytelling is engaging, filled with anecdotes that are both hilarious and heart-wrenching.
The audiobook format of “Wow, No Thank You” enhances the overall experience. Irby’s narration brings her words to life, her tone and inflection adding depth to her stories. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing the listener to fully absorb the gravity of Irby’s experiences while also appreciating her unique brand of humor.
What We Loved
We loved the authenticity of Irby’s narration. Her voice, filled with emotion, brings a level of intimacy to the audiobook that a print version simply can’t match. Her humor, often self-deprecating and always sharp, is a highlight of the audiobook. It’s refreshing to see such honesty and openness in discussing personal experiences and societal observations.
The production quality of the audiobook is also commendable. The sound quality is excellent, and Irby’s clear and articulate narration makes for an enjoyable listening experience.
What We Didn’t Like
While Irby’s humor and insight are undeniable, some listeners might find her style a bit too dry or sarcastic at times. Additionally, the book doesn’t follow a linear narrative, which might be disorienting for some listeners.
Despite these minor issues, “Wow, No Thank You” is a memorable audiobook that offers a unique perspective on life, society, and everything in between. It’s a testament to the power of humor and the resilience of the human spirit.
4. “Shrill” by Lindy West
Summary
“Shrill: Notes from a Loud Woman” is an audiobook that is as captivating as it is enlightening. Narrated by the author herself, Lindy West, it provides a raw and unfiltered look into her life experiences. Lindy’s delivery is nothing short of exceptional, making it feel less like a reading and more like an intimate conversation. The audiobook is a collection of stories that cover a range of topics, from her personal experience with abortion to her challenges to comedians about the impact of their jokes on their audience. Lindy’s conversational writing style, combined with her unique delivery, makes this audiobook a must-listen.
Review
“Shrill” is a memoir that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Lindy West’s narration is a standout feature, making the audiobook feel personal and engaging. Her delivery is conversational, making it feel like she’s sharing her life story directly with you. This style of narration makes the audiobook feel more intimate and allows the listener to connect with Lindy on a deeper level.
The content of the audiobook is equally compelling. Lindy shares stories from her life that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. She discusses her experiences with abortion and her challenges to comedians about the impact of their jokes, among other topics. These stories are not only engaging but also thought-provoking, prompting listeners to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives.
What We Loved
What stands out about “Shrill” is Lindy West’s exceptional narration. Her conversational style makes the audiobook feel personal and engaging. It’s as if she’s sharing her life story directly with you, making for a unique and intimate listening experience.
The content of the audiobook is equally impressive. Lindy’s stories are deeply personal and thought-provoking. They prompt listeners to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives, making for a listening experience that is as enlightening as it is entertaining.
What We Didn’t Like
While “Shrill” is a standout audiobook, it may not be for everyone. Some listeners might find the content of the audiobook to be too personal or controversial. However, these aspects are also what make the audiobook unique and thought-provoking. It’s a memoir that doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, and while this may not appeal to everyone, it’s part of what makes “Shrill” such a standout audiobook.
5. “Where I Come From: Stories from the Deep South” by Rick Bragg
Summary
“Where I Come From: Stories from the Deep South” is an audiobook written and narrated by Rick Bragg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author. This audiobook is a collection of personal columns and stories that pay homage to the history and people of the Deep South. The audiobook is published by Random House Audio and has a listening length of 7 hours and 23 minutes. It was released on October 27, 2020.
The audiobook is a compilation of diverse and deeply personal stories that range from Bragg’s love for Tupperware to the evolution of pickup trucks, the legacy of Harper Lee, and the best ways to exterminate fire ants. Each story is a testament to the author’s wit, honesty, and deep affection for the South.
Review
Rick Bragg’s “Where I Come From: Stories from the Deep South” is a heartfelt tribute to the South, its people, and its history. The audiobook is a collection of stories that are as diverse as they are personal, each one a testament to Bragg’s wit, honesty, and deep affection for the South.
Bragg’s narration is a highlight of the audiobook. His Southern drawl and storytelling prowess bring the stories to life, making the listener feel as if they are sitting on a porch on a warm Southern evening, listening to tales spun by a master storyteller. The author’s voice adds authenticity and depth to the stories, enhancing the listening experience.
The stories themselves are wide-ranging and deeply personal. From Bragg’s love for Tupperware (a love not shared by his mother, who preferred margarine tubs and thought Tupperware was “just showing off”) to the decline of country music, from the legacy of Harper Lee to the metamorphosis of the pickup truck, each story is a unique exploration of Southern life and culture.
What We Loved
What stands out in this audiobook is Bragg’s ability to weave together personal anecdotes, historical events, and cultural observations into a cohesive and engaging narrative. His stories are filled with humor, insight, and a deep love for the South.
Bragg’s narration is another highlight. His Southern drawl and storytelling prowess bring the stories to life, making the listener feel as if they are sitting on a porch on a warm Southern evening, listening to tales spun by a master storyteller.
What We Didn’t Like
While the stories are engaging and well-told, the audiobook might not appeal to listeners who prefer a more linear narrative. The stories jump from topic to topic, and while this adds to the charm of the audiobook, it might be disorienting for some listeners.
Overall, “Where I Come From: Stories from the Deep South” is a delightful listen, filled with humor, insight, and a deep love for the South. It’s a testament to Bragg’s storytelling prowess and his deep affection for the South.
6. “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner
Summary
“Crying in H Mart” is a memoir by Michelle Zauner, who is also known for her musical project, Japanese Breakfast. The audiobook is narrated by the author herself, adding a layer of authenticity and intimacy to the listening experience. The memoir is a poignant exploration of Zauner’s complex relationship with her mother and her Korean heritage, both of which take on new significance after her mother’s diagnosis with terminal cancer. The narrative is interwoven with vivid descriptions of Korean food, which serves as a powerful symbol of Zauner’s connection to her mother and her cultural identity.
Review
Listening to “Crying in H Mart” is an immersive experience. Zauner’s narration is heartfelt and sincere, her voice carrying the weight of the grief, love, and longing that permeate the memoir. The audiobook is not just a recounting of events, but a journey through Zauner’s emotional landscape as she grapples with her mother’s illness and death, and her subsequent search for identity and belonging.
Zauner’s descriptions of food are a highlight of the audiobook. They are so vivid and detailed that you can almost taste the dishes she talks about. These culinary interludes serve as poignant metaphors for Zauner’s relationship with her mother and her cultural heritage. They are moments of connection, remembrance, and sometimes, conflict.
The memoir is a deep dive into the complexities of a mother-daughter relationship, marked by high expectations, misunderstandings, and ultimately, a deep and abiding love. Zauner’s honesty in portraying this relationship, with all its ups and downs, makes for a compelling listen.
What We Loved
Zauner’s narration is one of the standout aspects of this audiobook. Her voice conveys the depth of her emotions, making the listener feel as if they are part of her journey. The memoir is also a beautiful tribute to her mother and a profound exploration of grief and identity.
The way Zauner uses food as a narrative device is another highlight. Her descriptions are not only mouthwatering but also loaded with emotional and cultural significance. They add a unique flavor to the memoir, making it a feast for the senses.
What We Didn’t Like
While “Crying in H Mart” is a deeply moving memoir, it can be heavy at times due to the themes of grief and loss. Some listeners might find it emotionally taxing. However, Zauner’s honesty and the depth of her storytelling make it a worthwhile listen.
7. “Broken Horses” by Brandi Carlile
Summary
“Broken Horses” is an audiobook memoir by the Grammy Award-winning artist, Brandi Carlile. This audiobook is narrated by the author herself, which adds a personal touch and authenticity to the narration. The audiobook, published by Penguin Random House Audio, is an unabridged version of the memoir, running for approximately 10 hours and 3 minutes. The memoir is a deep dive into Carlile’s life, her journey to stardom, and the challenges she faced along the way. It’s a story of resilience, love, and the power of music.
Review
Listening to “Broken Horses” is like sitting down with Brandi Carlile for an intimate conversation about her life. Her narration is heartfelt and genuine, making the listener feel as if they are part of her journey. The memoir is not just a recounting of events, but a reflection on the lessons learned and the wisdom gained.
Carlile’s storytelling is compelling. She takes us through her humble beginnings, her struggles with her sexuality, her rise to fame, and her life as a wife and mother. She shares her experiences with honesty and vulnerability, making the memoir relatable and inspiring.
The audiobook is enhanced by the inclusion of acoustic versions of some of her songs. These musical interludes add depth to the narrative and provide a unique insight into her creative process. The production quality is excellent, with clear audio and seamless transitions.
What We Loved
What stands out in “Broken Horses” is Brandi Carlile’s narration. Her voice is warm and inviting, making the listener feel connected to her story. The inclusion of her music in the audiobook is a delightful surprise, adding an emotional layer to her narrative.
We also loved the honesty and vulnerability with which Carlile shares her story. She doesn’t shy away from discussing her struggles and fears, making her story all the more inspiring. The memoir is a testament to her resilience and determination, and her journey is a source of inspiration for anyone facing challenges in their life.
What We Didn’t Like
While “Broken Horses” is a compelling memoir, it may not appeal to listeners who are not familiar with Brandi Carlile’s music. The memoir is deeply intertwined with her musical journey, and some references may be lost on those who are not fans of her music.
Additionally, while Carlile’s narration is heartfelt, there are moments where it feels a bit rushed. A slower pace in certain sections could have allowed for a deeper emotional connection.
Overall, “Broken Horses” is a captivating memoir that offers a unique insight into the life of one of the most talented artists of our time. Whether you’re a fan of Brandi Carlile or just love a good memoir, this audiobook is worth a listen.
8. “I’m Glad My Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy
Summary
“I’m Glad My Mom Died” is a raw and deeply personal memoir by Jennette McCurdy. The audiobook, narrated by McCurdy herself, adds an extra layer of intimacy to the narrative. McCurdy, known for her role in the Nickelodeon show “iCarly,” takes listeners on a journey through her life, focusing on her complex relationship with her mother and the impact her mother’s death had on her. The memoir is a candid exploration of grief, familial relationships, and the struggle to find one’s identity amidst personal turmoil.
Review
McCurdy’s narration is sincere and emotive, making the listener feel as if they are part of her journey. The memoir is a poignant exploration of grief and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. McCurdy doesn’t shy away from discussing the darker aspects of her life, which adds to the authenticity of her story.
The narrative is well-structured, with McCurdy’s life experiences unfolding in a way that keeps the listener engaged. The audiobook format works particularly well for this memoir, as McCurdy’s voice adds a personal touch that wouldn’t be as present in the written format. Her narration is expressive and heartfelt, effectively conveying the emotional depth of her experiences.
What We Loved
What stands out in “I’m Glad My Mom Died” is McCurdy’s honesty. She doesn’t sugarcoat her experiences or emotions, which makes her story all the more impactful. Her narration is also a highlight of the audiobook. McCurdy’s emotive voice brings her words to life, making the listener feel as if they are right there with her.
The memoir is also commendable for its exploration of grief. McCurdy’s portrayal of her emotions and experiences following her mother’s death is raw and relatable, making it a valuable listen for anyone who has experienced loss.
What We Didn’t Like
While “I’m Glad My Mom Died” is a powerful memoir, it can be emotionally heavy at times. Some listeners might find the raw depiction of grief and familial conflict challenging. However, this is a minor point and doesn’t detract from the overall impact of McCurdy’s story.
9. “Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey
Summary
“Greenlights” is a memoir by Matthew McConaughey that is anything but typical. Narrated by McConaughey himself, his Texas drawl adds a unique charm to the audiobook. The memoir is organized chronologically, based on his career and personal journals spanning over 30 years. It’s a blend of life stories and philosophies that have led him to his metaphorical ‘green lights’ in life. The audiobook runs for approximately 6 hours and 42 minutes, making it a relatively quick but impactful listen.
Review
“Greenlights” is a refreshing take on the memoir genre. McConaughey’s narration is not just a reading; it’s a performance that brings his life’s journey to the listener in an intimate and engaging way. The memoir is filled with stories from his childhood, his complex relationship with his parents, and his transformative year in Australia as a teenager. These stories are not just entertaining, but they also provide a deep insight into the experiences that shaped him.
The memoir also covers his transition from rom-com roles to more nuanced characters, providing a behind-the-scenes look into his career decisions. McConaughey’s ability to self-reflect and identify the blockages in his life is admirable and inspiring. His honesty and down-to-earth personality shine through the narration, making the listener feel like they’re having a one-on-one conversation with him.
What We Loved
The highlight of “Greenlights” is undoubtedly McConaughey’s narration. His Texas drawl and infectious personality make the audiobook a delightful experience. The memoir is also well-written, with a good balance of humor, wisdom, and raw honesty. The stories from his childhood and his year in Australia are particularly memorable, filled with funny moments and life-changing realizations.
Another aspect we loved is the structure of the memoir. It’s not just a linear recounting of his life; it’s a collection of experiences and philosophies that have helped him navigate his journey. This structure makes the memoir engaging and thought-provoking, encouraging the listener to reflect on their own ‘green lights’ in life.
What We Didn’t Like
While “Greenlights” is an enjoyable listen, it might not appeal to everyone. Some listeners might find the philosophies interspersed throughout the memoir a bit preachy. However, these philosophies are integral to understanding McConaughey’s journey and mindset, so they’re essential to the memoir. It’s also worth noting that the memoir contains some mature content, particularly when discussing his parents’ complex relationship, which might not be suitable for all listeners.
Overall, “Greenlights” is a captivating memoir that offers a unique insight into Matthew McConaughey’s life and mindset. Whether you’re a fan of his work or just enjoy a good memoir, this audiobook is definitely worth a listen.
10. “Not My Father’s Son” by Alan Cumming
Summary
“Not My Father’s Son” is a poignant memoir narrated by the author himself, Alan Cumming. This audiobook is a deeply personal exploration of Cumming’s complicated relationship with his father and his own journey of self-discovery. The narration by Cumming adds an extra layer of intimacy to the story, as he shares his life experiences in his own voice, with his own emotions. The audiobook spans approximately 6 hours and 28 minutes, providing an immersive experience for the listener.
Review
Alan Cumming’s narration is heartfelt and genuine, making the listener feel as though they are part of his journey. His Scottish accent adds a unique charm to the narration, making it even more engaging.
The memoir is a mix of past and present, with Cumming recounting his difficult childhood under the shadow of an abusive father, and his adult life as he navigates his career and personal identity. The transitions between past and present are seamless in the audiobook, with Cumming’s narration guiding the listener through his life’s timeline.
What we loved
The highlight of the “Not My Father’s Son” audiobook is undoubtedly Alan Cumming’s narration. His emotive storytelling brings his experiences to life, making the listener feel a part of his journey. His openness about his struggles and triumphs makes for a deeply moving listening experience.
The production quality of the audiobook is also commendable. The sound quality is excellent, and Cumming’s clear and articulate narration makes it easy to follow along. The pacing of the narration is just right, allowing the listener to absorb the story without feeling rushed.
What we didn’t like
While “Not My Father’s Son” is a compelling memoir, some listeners might find the content heavy due to the themes of abuse and trauma. However, Cumming handles these topics with sensitivity and grace, turning his personal experiences into a universal story of resilience and self-discovery.
In conclusion, “Not My Father’s Son” is a powerful memoir that is enhanced by Alan Cumming’s heartfelt narration. It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you’re a fan of Cumming’s work or a lover of memoirs, this audiobook is a must-listen.
