Should I create an audiobook for Models and Citizens?

[Andrew]

Hey folks,

Just curious. Most of my scifi reading is through audiobooks. I'm interested in pursuing that for my book Models and Citizens. Do you consume most of your scifi books as audiobooks? How likely are you to try out a nee author in that medium?

-Andrew

[Jim]

The vast majority of my reading material is in the form of traditional print books - hard-cover and paperback. However, I do listen to audio books on CD while on long road trips.

If you do decide to have your work released in audio - compact disc or download, I suggest you utilize the services of a qualified, professional narrator who can share samples of their previous audio books. Production expenditures will also include renting a studio and an experienced technician.

There are less expensive methods of recording and a few authors have occasionally narrated their own work; however, as with any product, quality plays a major role in achieving commercial success.

[Andrew]

Jim wrote: "The vast majority of my reading material is in the form of traditional print books - hard-cover and paperback. However, I do listen to audio books on CD while on long road trips.

If you do decide ..."

Thanks, Jim. Good insights here. My all-time favorite narrator (who I probably couldn't afford) is the one who does the Harry Potter series - he really nails the voices from the movies. Based on what you've said here, it sounds like quality is the key driver here.

Any idea what a good professional narrator might cost (or anyone reading this thread)?

Btw, Jim - saw the description for Levels. Very interesting. I'm adding it to my reading list.

[Jim]

Andrew wrote: "Jim wrote: "The vast majority of my reading material is in the form of traditional print books - hard-cover and paperback. However, I do listen to audio books on CD while on long road trips.

If yo..."

Andrew,

The total fee for having my novel released in audio format was $500*. This included the professional narrator, Stephen Rozzell, and the recording studio rental. In order to comply with established limitations, the print format of 111,000 words was abridged by me to 85,000 words. The finished product was released on Compact Disc (8 hours listening time), and audio download.

*Note: The audio book was released in 2011 (19 years ago), so costs have no doubt increased.

I hope that all of your efforts and investments of time and money eventually result in significant commercial success.

[Andrew]

Jim wrote: "Andrew wrote: "Jim wrote: "The vast majority of my reading material is in the form of traditional print books - hard-cover and paperback. However, I do listen to audio books on CD while on long roa..."

Thanks, Jim! This is my first book, and its definitely been an experience so far.

[Andrew]

Andrew wrote: "Jim wrote: "Andrew wrote: "Jim wrote: "The vast majority of my reading material is in the form of traditional print books - hard-cover and paperback. However, I do listen to audio books on CD while..."

A good experience - to clarify :).