Best full cast audiobooks
We are surrounded by screens and digital noise these days! It is easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of information that is thrown at you, as well as the ways in which it is presented. That’s why audiobooks can be a great tool for you to explore other worlds and experience other people’s lives.
Even in audiobooks, dramatised versions have gained immense popularity!
Essentially they are audiobooks with a full cast, sound effects, and a storyline that seems like it has come straight out of your favourite movie or TV show! Although not all the full cast audiobooks bring in sound effects in the narrations. But I do find these full cast audiobooks fascinating and magical, especially when you’ve grown tired of listening to the same voices over and over again.
The best full cast audiobooks offer listeners a cinematic masterpiece of audio. When it comes to reading material, there are few things that can top a well-performed story with all its drama and emotion brought to life through sound effects and music. And because these audiobooks feature full casts of actors instead of just one voice actor, you don’t have to worry about getting bored with hearing the same voice all the time.
Often these dramatised versions have many more voice actors, Yearbook Book by Seth Rogen comes with a full cast of over more than 80 narrators! Needless to say, listening to these audiobooks is a genuine game changer.
If you’re ready for a truly immersive listening experience get started with 25 of the best full cast audiobooks out there right now – something for everyone!
Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The story is about an iconic rock group from the 1970s and lead singers Daisy Jones and Billy Dunne. When the band break-up in the height of popularity, everyone is shocked. As the novel is written in the form of a documentary, we learn from the other characters what had happened to the band. This is also a coming-of-age story of Daisy, a young girl coming of age in Los Angeles who had always dreamed of an adventurous life. Although sex and drugs are fascinating for her, she loves the rock and roll. This gripping audiobook with numerous narrators is going to take you back to the era of music, glamour and scandal.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
The 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones
The 1619 Project is essentially 18 essays that will let you rethink the vision of the American past and present. It explores the legacy of slavery that have impacted American life since 1619, the year when Africans were brought to America for the first time. We hear from American investigative journalist Hannah-Jones and several other journalists and poets about the topic. A powerful book that elucidates how the legacy slavery continues to to shape the contemporary American life.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Yearbook Book by Seth Rogen
Actor and comedian Seth Rogen’s book is a collection of true stories written in an incredibly funny way. He talks about his childhood and his early years as a stand-up comedian. He also describes his observations about fame and drugs. There are other great moments that are really touching. Although the book has most elements of a memoir, it’s can be described as a collections of personal stories. The best part about this audiobook is the great voices that narrates each story, a full cast of more than 80 narrators actually!
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Four Hundred Souls edited by Ibram X. Kendi & Keisha N. Blain
Four Hundred Souls is a collection of essays that bring life to Black History. 400 year history which began with the first slave ship in 1619. Extraordinary stories that discuss people, movement, judiciary, etc. Also heart-wrenching stories that underlines the injustice of the past. All these are told by many authors and each writer includes poems, essays and short stories. Whether you’re someone who is already well versed in Black history or someone just starting to learn about it, you are going to find this book incredibly moving.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
The Book of Joy by 14th Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
In The Book of Joy two spiritual leaders come together to find out how to master the art of joy and happiness even in the worst of circumstances. His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu have been friends for many years. Now these friends are together to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday in India. So to make the occasion even more special and meaningful they share their wisdom about achieving deep happiness. Along with sharing their own stories, they also discuss the recent development in the science of deep happiness. A powerful piece of audiobook you should listen to if you’re in search of joy and compassion.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
British author Neil Gaiman‘s 2011 fantasy novel compiles the elements of adventure, sci-fi and magic. The story centres around Shadow Moon, a man who has been given an early release from jail. Upon his release he learns about his wife’s death. Heavy-hearted he travels to his home, that’s when he meets Mr. Wednesday, who introduces himself as a former god of America. Shortly after, Moon is hired as his bodyguard, one of the most dangerous jobs ever. Together they go on a road trip, a journey to the battles of the Old Gods and the New Gods.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Sadie by by Courtney Summers
Brace yourself to listen to a fast-moving YA suspense novel that will make you feel like you’re listening to a crime podcast! Sadie is seeking justice for her sister, she wants to find out who killed her beloved sister, the only family she ever had. She starts the journey, away from her town. Meanwhile, her neighbour calls the radio journalist,West McCray to report about Sadie’s disappearance. So McCray searches for clues that will lead him to Sadie. A gripping audiobook to keep you on the edge of your seat.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
✅You’ll love this post- 16 Highly Popular Audiobooks that are Worth Listening on Audible
The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
The Golden Compass is the first novel from English author Philip Pullman’s Dark Materials series, which includes The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass. We follow the journey of Lyra Belacqua, a young girl who travels to the Arctic to find her missing friend, Roger. She is determined to fight the dark forces, Gobblers, that take children. A fascinating audiobook that you should listen to on your road trip.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders
This story of familial love and loss takes place over the course of one night. President Lincoln’s grieving over the death of his 11 year old son Willie. But Willie’s spirit is still in the bardo- a place between heaven and hell. He refuses to leave the place. The story focuses on how other spirits, 166 of them, try to convince Willie to depart. The full cast of the audiobook features award-winning actors and musicians along with writers’ family and friends and his publishing team. The audiobook was awarded the 2018 Audie Award for Audiobook of the Year!!
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood ( Special Edition )
The Handmaid’s Tale is set in a dystopian Republic of Gilead. Offred is a handmaiden (also the narrator of the story). Handmaidens are the birth machines for the elite. Their main purpose is to bear children as the number of births are declining in the state. Once she is done with one family, she would be assigned to another. This process will go on until she is infertile. This special edition of Margaret Atwood’s modern classic features performances by Claire Danes, Margaret Atwood, Emily Bauer, Allyson Johnson and many more!
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
Richard Mayhew was an ordinary man, living a quiet life with his fiance. However, his kindness to a stranger changes everything. Door, the girl whom he saved, seems to be invisible to everyone except him. Soon after, the same happend to him. Unable to cope with this, Richard decides to join Door to Neverwhere- a world filled with terrifying people and creatures. This spellbinding dramatisation of the novel features a stellar voice cast including Christopher Lee, James McAvoy, and Benedict Cumberbatch!
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
The Path Made Clear by Oprah Winfrey
This is a compilation of inspiring teachings from spiritual thinkers. Each chapter will help you identify your life’s purpose. Oprah shares wisdom that she learned from her guests including Deepak Chopra, Eckhart Tolle, and Elizabeth Gilbert. These life lessons not only encourage you to be mindful but also discover your life’s direction and purpose.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Riley Mack and the Other Known Troublemakers by Chris Grabenstein
This humorous children’s audiobook is equally entertaining for adults. Riley Mack was a naughty boy but not anymore. Ever since his military dad advised him to make good use of his smarts, he has been helping people. He is not alone in this endeavour, he has a gang of friends who dedicate their time to this mission. Start listening to the epic adventure story of these small heroes who solve the mysteries and crimes in their town.
Charlotte’s Web byE. B. White
E. B. White’s classical novel is a tale of friendship and love. Wilbur the pig is scared for his life. He is sure that he is going to be killed before Christmas, as he has heard the horrible stories of pig slaughtering. But then he meets the sweet little Charlotte, a barn spider. She promises him that she will come up with a plan that’ll save his life. The star-stubbed voice cast of Charlotte’s Web includes Meryl Streep, January LaVoy, Kirby Heyborne and more.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Heads Will Roll by Kate McKinnon & Emily Lynne
This full cast production of this raunchy tale has a witty storyline and original songs and sound effects. The story centres around Queen Mortuana and her hysterical journey to find “Shard of Acquiescence” to save the throne. She is accompanied by her ditsy raven minion JoJo. This star-studded satire audiobook features performances from Meryl Streep, Peter Dinklage, and many more.
Publisher’s note: This content is not for kids. It is for mature audiences only. This audio comedy features sexual content, adult language and themes, and violence against peasants and hobgoblins alike. Discretion is advised.
The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton
This is the story of the most unlikely rock duo in the 1970s. A black girl from Detroit and a white boy from the UK, who come together to make music for Rivington Records. We learn about their short-lived musical journey and the tragic events that tore them apart. A captivating audiobook for both bibliophiles and melophiles.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION | BUY BOOK
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien
This dramatised version of Tolkien’s epic classic tale is a treat for audiobook lovers. Listen to the story of Middle Earth and the monumental journey of the Ringbearer and the fellowship, which is brought to life by Ian Holm who was Bilbo in the The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. This full cast audiobook version of the Lord of The Rings is also a great way for kids and young readers to enjoy the long classic book.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
This epic sci-fi classic is written in 1979 and tells the story of Arthur Dent who miraculously escapes the destruction of the Earth. Now he is travelling through the galaxy. And he is not alone in his space adventure, he is accompanied by his friend Ford Perfect. They encounter many mysterious creatures in this journey, including two-headed, three-armed Zaphod Beeblebrox and his girlfriend, a chronically depressed robot and many many more!
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
A Guy Walks into My Bar by Lauren Blakely
New York Times bestselling author Lauren Blakely’s novel is a stand-alone romance. We follow a passionate romance between a hockey player and a bartender. Dean Fitzgerald is in England for a while, spending time with her sister. As Fitzgerald is about to go back to the US within a week, he isn’t really looking to meet anyone special in England. However, when he goes out to a bar he meets the handsome Dean Collins and their brief chat sparks a mutual attraction. Shane East and Joe Arden bring these charming characters to life along with other supporting cast including Vanessa Edwin, Emma Wilder, Ron Butler, Jakobi Diem, Zachary Webber and more!
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
World War Z by Max Brooks
Max Brooks zombie apocalyptic novel depicts effects of a zombie apocalypse which is followed by the social, political and cultural outbreak. Brooks doesn’t really explain the situation, rather he lets people from around the world narrate their experiences during the global pandemic. Although humanity survived the zombie plague, the people couldn’t really come out of the emotional trauma.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
One More Thing Stories and Other Stories by B. J. Novak
The Office fame actor B. J. Novak’s fictional debut is a collection of short stories that are dark and disarmingly funny. Some stories are only a few lines while others are a few pages long. Regardless, each story brings something unique and exceptional for the readers. For instance, there is a story of a boy who wins $100,000 in a box of Frosted Flakes, another about a robot who falls in love and an hilarious story about author John Grisham’s new book. Novak cleverly brings in his wild imagination and logical interpretation in his stories.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Florence Adler Swims Forever by Rachel Beanland
Based on the author’s own family, this story is narrated by seven characters. This family saga is an uplifting tale of love and friendship. Set in the summer of 1934, it centres around the Adler family. All of them are living in a small apartment as they rent out their house in summer. The occupants of the apartment also include a family guest. All of them have their own secrets that they hide in order to protect others. As you learn about each characters’ sufferings and losses, your hearts might skip a beat!
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Good Omens by Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett
Good Omens narrates the story of an angel and a demon and their mostly unlikely friendship. Having spent thousands of years on Earth Aziraphale, the angel and Crowley, the demon have made many compromises and have never disturned each other’s missions. They both are fond of humans and their lives. Now the time has come to work together to stop the apocalypse. In order to prevent the end of the world, they plan to do something with the son of Satan ( AntiChrist). This light-hearted story of good, evil and Armageddon is unbelievably entertaining.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
This teen crime thriller is follows 17-year-old Pippa who investigates the small town murder that had happend five years ago. For high high school projects Pip decides to put on her detective cap and find out about the murder of Andie Bell. As the whole town believes Sal Singh is the killer, Pip is determined to unveil the mystery. Join the young Pip as she investigates and solves the puzzle.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION| BUY BOOK
Allergic by Megan Wagner Lloyd
This middle grade novel is a cute little story of a girl with severe allergies who is looking for the best pet. Maggie wants to have a pet. As everyone has a lot of things to care about, Maggie wants to have something for her own. So she decided that getting a pet dog is the best option. However, soon the family finds out that Maggie has a lot of severe allergies because of which she can’t have any pets with feathers and fur. She is obviously devastated by the news, but s determined to find the pet which can’t cause an allergic reaction. The dramatised version of this heartfelt story is perfect for kids and grown-ups.
LISTEN THE AUDIBLE NARRATION | BUY BOOK
There you have the list of 25 immersive full cast audiobooks
What’s your most favorite dramatised audiobook?
Let me know,
Stephy