audiobook
Expand your literary palate without sacrificing a large chunk of your day by diving into the world of short audiobooks. Short audiobooks are the saviors of book lovers who are perpetually short on time. You can effortlessly blend literary indulgence into your daily routine thanks to audiobook Production Services like Audible. Here is a list of the best short audiobooks you can devour within six hours.
1. Animal Farm – George Orwell
Imagine a farm where the animals decide they’ve had enough of following the humans’ orders. So, they take over the farm, promising equality and freedom for all animals. This is the core idea of “Animal Farm” by George Orwell. However, things don’t go as planned. The farm slowly shifts into a place where power corrupts, and life becomes harder.
This book isn’t just a story about animals; it’s a smart and sharp commentary on how governments can become corrupt and how good intentions can go wrong. Orwell uses the farm and animals as symbols to talk about serious topics like totalitarianism, which is a form of government where the state has too much control over people’s lives, in a way that’s interesting and easy to understand.
2. Breakfast at Tiffany’s – Truman Capote
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” introduces us to Holly Golightly, an unforgettable character who sparkles with life and energy. Holly lives in New York City and enjoys the finer things in life, even though she doesn’t have much money.
She has a mysterious charm that draws people to her, including the story’s narrator, who is fascinated by Holly’s freedom and adventurous spirit. This book takes us on a journey through Holly’s world, showing us her friendships, her search for a place where she truly belongs, and her desire to be loved for who she is. Truman Capote has created a story that explores themes of love, the quest for identity, and the meaning of friendship in a fun and engaging way.
3. Who Moved My Cheese? – Spencer Johnson
“Who Moved My Cheese?” is a simple yet powerful book that uses a story about two mice (Sniff and Scurry) and two little people (Hem and Haw) living in a maze. This maze is a metaphor for life, and the cheese represents what we want in life, like a good job, a loving relationship, or health. One day, the cheese disappears, and the four characters react differently.
This story teaches us about the importance of being able to adapt to change. Whether it’s changes at work, relationships, or any other kind of changes life throws at us, this book offers valuable insights on managing these changes effectively. It’s a great short audiobook for anyone who is facing changes in their life and wants to learn how to deal with them positively.
4. The Great Gatsby – F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The Great Gatsby” transports readers to 1920s America — a time of grandeur, prosperity, and decidedly extravagant lifestyles. Central to the plot is Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man known for hosting extravagant parties that illuminate New York summers. Gatsby is a man of immense charm and harbors an unshakeable love for the beautiful Daisy Buchanan.
There’s a mystery, there’s yearning, but underpinning it all is a critique of the American Dream — the belief that regardless of where one starts in life, anyone can attain their version of success in society. Fitzgerald’s intricate depiction of Gatsby’s pursuit of wealth for love and the eventual disillusionment he faces form the heart and soul of this timeless novel.
5. Slaughterhouse-Five – Kurt Vonnegut
Slaughterhouse Five” is a book unlike any other, blending elements of science fiction, war, and satire into one. The protagonist, Billy Pilgrim, experiences his life in a non-linear sequence, with the power of time travel at his disposal. Through this unusual storytelling, Vonnegut illustrates the senselessness and brutality of war. Billy, who becomes an unwilling witness to the catastrophic
Dresden bombing during World War II faces the challenge of finding meaning in a world of chaos. The Short audiobook explores human nature, mortality, and free will versus fate. It’s a captivating listen that encourages introspection and critical thinking.
6. The Metamorphosis – Frank Kafka
One day, Gregor Samsa wakes up to be transformed into an enormous insect. Kafka’s unusual and startling premise in “The Metamorphosis” throws us into the mind of a man-turned-creature navigating the distressing reality of his changed form. His family’s repulsion and his ensuing isolation make us question the human condition and our capacity for empathy.
It’s a strange story yet poignantly human in reflecting our world and societal norms. Kafka’s skillful storytelling assures that despite its surreal undertone, “The Metamorphosis” emerges as a deeply engaging exploration of life, metamorphosis, and human existence.
7. Coraline – Neil Gaiman
This spooky adventure featuring a resourceful young girl exploring an alternate reality is perfect for those who love to dip their ears into the underlines of horror fantasy.
8. Of Mice and Men – John Steinbeck
Steinbeck’s short novel about two displaced ranch workers during the Great Depression is a poignant tale of dreams, loyalty, and tragedy.
9. We Should All Be Feminists – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Adichie’s compelling narrative on feminism for the 21st Century is a must for everyone who believes in gender equality.
10. A Study in Scarlet – Arthur Conan Doyle
The first ever Sherlock Holmes book offers a gripping detective story, introducing the eccentric genius of the detective and his faithful companion, Watson.
11. The War of the Worlds – H.G. Wells
This science fiction classic, one of the earliest stories detailing a conflict between mankind and an extraterrestrial race, is a thrilling listen.
12. Mathilda – Mary Shelley
Different from Shelley’s popular genre trends of horror as featured in “Frankenstein,” this one explores a complex parent-child relationship.
13. Death by Black Hole: And Other Cosmic Quandaries – Neil deGrasse Tyson
An exciting exploration into the cosmic world for those fascinated by the wonders of the universe and the enigmatic physics that governs it.
14. Man’s Search for Meaning – Viktor E. Frankl
Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl recounts his time in Nazi concentration camps and the psychological insights derived from his experiences.
15. Elevation – Stephen King
A unique departure from King’s usual, the book is a heartfelt delve into the lives of the occupants of Castle Rock, encapsulating love over hate within a paranormal narrative.
For aspiring authors, a big bonus from listening to these short audiobooks is getting an idea of the incredible diversity in the publishing world. Discovering popular genre trends and witnessing storytelling styles from around the globe can do wonders for your writing.
Conclusion
Short audiobooks satisfy your literary cravings without demanding a lengthy commitment. Next time you have a six-hour journey, a heavy workout day, or simply want to unwind, dive into these enticing short listens. When you feel ready to share your story with the world, remember leading literary agencies such as Book Writing Founders are always available to provide book publishing, ghostwriting, and book writing services to help you on your pathway to becoming a published author.
