How does Audible work? How much it costs, how to get free books and how to cancel
Audible is an Amazon subscription service offering audiobooks, podcasts and more. Here's how it works.
Listen up all bookworms, podcast listeners and audio fans – if you're looking for somewhere to source your favourite auditory entertainment, Audible is the perfect platform for you. Audible is an Amazon service offering a huge variety and number of titles, all wrapped up in an affordable subscription package. It's great for those who are struggling to find time to read, or for those on the lookout for a new podcast to get stuck into. Books are either read out to you by a narrator, the title’s author or a well-known celebrity, while podcasts often have famous hosts. The book fanatics at RadioTimes.com have rounded up some of the best audiobooks and best non-fiction audiobooks that you'll find on Audible. If you’ve got little ones looking for a bedtime story, we’ve got a list of the best kids' audiobooks, too. If you’re tempted to sign-up for Audible, we’ve outlined the answers to all the main questions you might have about the service and how it works below. The good news is that, at the very least, the first month will either be free or very cheap, since there's always a promotional offer around to entice potential new subscribers. Head to our piece on how to get an Audible free trial in the UK for the latest information. In our best Audible offers article, we share the top deals each month to help you bag the subscription service for free or for less, and we tell you how to get free audiobooks. And you can also head to our Audible Gift Card piece if you want to treat a loved one to the subscription service this Christmas. Start your 30-day free Audible trial undefined Quality audiobooks deserve quality audio – and if you're looking for something to play your audiobooks through at home, don't miss our best DAB radio recommendations and best Amazon Echo deals. Jump to: What is Audible? How much does Audible cost in the UK? How does Audible work? What are Audible credits? What do you need to use Audible? How to buy books on Audible How to get free books on Audible How to return a book on Audible How do you cancel an Audible membership? What is Audible? Audible is an audiobook service from Amazon, offering the world’s biggest selection of titles ranging from much-loved classics to new releases and original podcasts. Listeners can download or stream their chosen titles with a membership to Audible. Books may be read aloud by a narrator, the authors themselves, well-known stars or even performed by an audio cast. Many podcasts also have famous hosts — for instance, Michael Caine’s podcast Heist is about famous robberies, and then there's From the Oasthouse, Alan Partridge's podcast, which, of course, is read by the East Anglian superstar himself. There are constantly new releases being added to Audible too – new this month includes Fearless by Lauren Roberts. Start your 30-day free Audible trial How much does Audible cost in the UK? The cost for an Audible membership depends on the plan you sign up for, and the Audible tiers have changed slightly in recent weeks. There are two monthly plans and two annual plans, and we've broken them all down below: Standard Monthly | £5.99 per month — Select one audiobook a month from the entire collection, and listen to your selected audiobook as long as you're a member Premium Plus Monthly | £8.99 per month — Get one credit a month to buy any audiobook from the entire collection, the book is yours to keep, even if you cancel, listen to thousands of additional audiobooks and originals from the Plus Catalogue, and enjoy exclusive sales and discounts Premium Plus Annual (12 credits) | £69.99 per year — Get 12 credits a year for any audiobook in the entire collection, listen to thousands of additional audiobooks and originals from the Plus Catalogue, and enjoy member-only deals and discounts Premium Plus Annual (24 credits) | £109.99 per year — Same as the 12 credits option, except with 24 credits a year. To entice you in even more, if you want to test Audible out before you commit, you can also trial the monthly services for free for 30 days. Start your 30-day free Audible trial undefined How does Audible work? By signing up to Audible on the standard membership, you receive one new audiobook every month you are a member. You can choose from a range of membership plans and which one you have will determine how many Audible 'credits' you receive each month, which can be exchanged for audiobooks on the service. You're not limited to one book a month, though, many are available for free and you can buy more. Also, you can listen to all the Audible Original Podcasts with unlimited streaming and there are also a number of exclusive offers and deals throughout the month, including the 'Daily Deals' which offer a different title for up to 80% off each day. What are Audible credits? Audible credits are the service's internal currency, with one credit purchasing one audiobook: nice and simple. But different memberships afford different credits, ranging from one credit per month to 24 credits per year, as we've mentioned above. What's great is that Audible works with a rollover scheme, so that if, say, you have a hectic month and don't get the chance to use your monthly credit, it can be used in the following month instead. But keep in mind that credits will eventually expire after a year of disuse. Have you heard the Nintendo Switch 2 release date has been announced? Plus, here's the up-to-date Nintendo Switch 2 UK stock. What do you need to use Audible? You can access Audible via your internet browser. However, it's easier to install the app on your device of choice; Audible is compatible with nearly every single phone and tablet out there. One thing you'll need to make sure is that you have an Amazon account — Audible is a subsidiary company of the retail giant after all. Plus, if you're an Amazon Prime member, you get more for your 30-day free trial. Instead of picking one audiobook with the free trial, Prime members can pick two! Titles include classics such as JK Rowling's Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, or the much-talked about biography The Woman in Me from Britney Spears, and many more. And what's best, they're yours to keep, plus after the trial members will receive one credit per month. Looking at switching music streaming services? Take a look at our what is Amazon Music and Amazon Music vs Spotify, Spotify vs Apple Music and Apple Music vs Amazon Music guides. How to buy books on Audible If you are using a device like a smartphone, you can search and download from the app. If you are on a laptop or computer, you can buy audiobooks through the usual Amazon site, just make sure you're logged in. On the left of the main search bar, select the category 'Audible Audiobooks' from the dropdown menu to search for a title. After clicking on a book title you have searched for in the search bar as normal, you should see boxes with various options including 'Kindle Edition', 'Paperback' and 'Audio Download'. In the 'Audio Download' box, it should list a price or the option to purchase with one credit. By selecting this option you’ll be able to buy the audiobook outright or purchase with any unused credits. You can also do this from the mobile version of the online website. How to get free books on Audible When you sign up to a free 30-day membership with Audible, you’ll receive one free audiobook to get you started. If you continue your membership on one of Audible’s plans, you'll receive regular credits which can be exchanged for a title of your choice. One token entitles you to one audiobook, no matter the price, without having to shell out any extra cost. If you find you don't manage to use a credit every month, it's possible to get in touch with Audible customer services and request to 'freeze' your account for a few months. This allows you to catch up and use the credits you have without paying more and getting swamped, or cancelling your subscription entirely. How to return a book on Audible If you aren’t enjoying a book or have downloaded the wrong one by mistake, you're able to return it and use your credit on something else. To do this, you need to log into your account on the Audible website and click on 'Account Details' from the drop-down menu under your name. From here you can choose 'Purchase History' to see a list of all the audiobooks you've bought. On the right of the title you want to exchange, you should see a button saying 'Return Order' which can simply select to send it back. Start your 30-day free Audible trial We've written great guides on how to read books in order; just take a look at how to read Silo books in order, how to read Heartstopper books in order, and how to read Jacqueline Wilson books in order. How do you cancel an Audible membership? Your Audible membership will automatically renew at the end of your plan. This is includes your free trial period. If you want to cancel your membership, log into the Audible website and go to the 'Account Details' page. Under 'Account Settings' you should see the option, 'cancel my membership'. Select this and follow the instructions on screen to terminate your Audible plan. If you have paid for an audiobook on Amazon, it will remain in your Audible library forever even once your subscription has ended. This should also apply to items purchased during your free trial. Any credits you have not used, however, will disappear, so make sure you use them up before cancelling your membership. Start your 30-day free Audible trial Do you love reading as much as listening? Don't miss our pick of the very best Kindle deals. Find something to watch tonight with our TV Guide and Streaming Guide.
Harry Potter movies actor returns in new role for new adaptation with epic cast
JK Rowling's seven novels are being brought to life in new audio adaptations.
The full cast for Audible’s adaptation of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter books has been revealed, with Bill Nighy among the latest additions to the line-up. Nighy played Minister for Magic, Rufus Scrimgeour, in the Warner Bros. Harry Potter films but will take on a different role in Harry Potter: The Full Cast Audio Editions, providing the voice of Professor Slughorn. Other new additions to the cast include Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù (Black Rabbit) as Sirius Black, Anna Maxwell Martin (Motherland) as Rita Skeeter, Saoirse-Monica Jackson (Derry Girls) as Professor Trelawney, Mackenzie Crook (The Office) as Kreacher, Stephen Mangan (The Split) as Nearly Headless Nick and Tracy-Ann Oberman (EastEnders) as Madam Hooch. David Holmes, who was Daniel Radcliffe’s stunt double on the Harry Potter movies, will voice Stan Shunpike, the Knight Bus conductor. Meanwhile, Jude Farrant will voice the young Draco Malfoy in the first three audiobooks, with Maximus Evans continuing the part in audiobooks four through seven. Jake Sigsworth will portray Neville Longbottom in the first three audiobooks, while Archie Mountain will voice the character in audiobooks four through seven. “I was pleased to be asked to play the Professor after having already played a Minister for Magic,” said Nighy in a statement. “Is it possible that I’m the only actor who can claim that achievement? It means that my career continues to have meaning for the next couple of generations. "I’m always grateful when asked to play academics having not been further educated myself. I’m hoping to be a significant part of something that will keep children entertained in the car on those long journeys overseas or just on the way to school.” Holmes added: “I’m beyond thrilled and honoured to be voicing Stan Shunpike in the forthcoming Pottermore and Audible Harry Potter full-cast audiobook. Being a part of this is very much full circle for me, considering I was the Harry stunt double inside the Knight Bus as it was whizzing through the streets of London on the Harry Potter Prisoner of Azkaban movie. "I hope everybody enjoys my performance and both old or new audiences will connect with these magical stories. Tickets please….” They join the previously announced Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape, Cush Jumbo OBE as the narrator, Kit Harington as Professor Lockhart, Keira Knightley as Professor Umbridge, Iwan Rheon as Professor Lupin, Ruth Wilson as Bellatrix Lestrange and Ambika Mod as Nymphadora Tonks. Leo Woodall was also previously announced to be starring as Bill Weasley, Simon Pegg as Arthur Weasley, James McAvoy as Mad-Eye Moody, Gemma Whelan as Professor Sprout, Matt Berry as Sir Cadogan, Michelle Gomez as Professor McGonagall, Mark Addy as Hagrid, Alex Hassell as Lucius Malfoy, Daniel Mays as Dobby, and Sara and Avni Deshmukh as The Patil Twins. Meanwhile, rising stars Frankie Treadaway, Max Lester, and Arabella Stanton will play the younger versions of Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger respectively in the first three audiobooks. Notably, Stanton is also playing Hermione in the upcoming HBO series. Jaxon Knopf, Rhys Mulligan, and Nina Barker-Francis will play the older versions of the trio in audiobook four through to the conclusion. The first audiobook, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, is scheduled to be released on Audible on 4th November, 2025, with the remaining six English-language audiobooks releasing monthly. The final audiobook is set to arrive one year before the HBO series is expected to premiere, with that series having begun filming, but not set for release until 2027. Harry Potter author JK Rowling has faced backlash in some quarters due to her views on transgender rights. In 2020, she published a lengthy statement detailing her stance on sex and gender debates – the essay was criticised and disputed by LGBTQ+ charities including Stonewall. Rowling has also shared her views on social media, including in a 2024 post on X (formerly Twitter), in which she insisted that “there are no trans kids” and opposed the idea that a child can be “born in the wrong body”. In May 2025, Rowling set up the JK Rowling Women’s Fund, which describes itself as offering legal funding support to “individuals and organisations fighting to retain women’s sex-based rights”. Harry Potter actors including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson, have distanced themselves from Rowling's views and have issued statements supporting the transgender community. Others, including Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter and Jim Broadbent, have defended the author from the criticism she has received. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone: The Full-Cast Audio Edition is available on Tuesday 4th November. Read our list of the best audiobooks on Audible to listen to right now. Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guideto find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
New Harry Potter adaptation adds Game of Thrones legends to huge A-list cast
Kit Harington and Iwan Rheon will join more stars including Keira Knightley and Ruth Wilson in the new full cast Harry Potter audio dramas.
As fans wait patiently for the new Harry Potter TV show, we've just got a big update regarding another adaptation of JK Rowling's novels - Audible's full-cast audio editions. A large number of central cast members for the audio editions were announced last month, with Cush Jumbo, Hugh Laurie, Matthew Macfadyen, Riz Ahmed, Michelle Gomez, Mark Addy, Alex Hassell and Daniel Mays all playing key roles. Now, new additions to the cast have been confirmed, with some more A-listers also joining the line-up. Amongst those who have been cast are Keira Knightley, who will play Dolores Umbridge, while Game of Thrones legends Kit Harington and Iwan Rheon will both be playing Defence Against the Dark Arts teachers, with Harington playing Gilderoy Lockhart and Rheon taking on the role of Remus Lupin. Other new additions include Ruth Wilson as Bellatrix Lestrange, Simon Pegg as Arthur Weasley, James McAvoy as Mad-Eye Moody, Gemma Whelan as Professor Sprout and Matt Berry as Sir Cadogan. There will also be a One Day reunion, as the stars of that Netflix series, Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall, play Nymphadora Tonks and Bill Weasley. On the announcement, McAvoy said: "I am absolutely thrilled to bring the fiercely determined Mad-Eye Moody to life in these dynamic audio editions from Pottermore and Audible. He's a layered character, constantly shifting between battle-hardened intensity and unexpected moments of wisdom. Capturing his commanding presence was incredibly fun." Meanwhile, Woodall added: "In creating Bill Weasley's adventures through voice, it is genuinely special to be part of bringing this world to life in a new way for listeners. "From the stellar cast to the immersive sound world that Pottermore and Audible have put together, listeners everywhere will be given a new way to be transported directly into these celebrated stories." As was previously confirmed, the roles of Harry, Ron and Hermione will be played by a different set of actors in the first three books to the latter four. The actor playing Hermione in the first three, Arabella Stanton, has also been cast as Hermione in HBO's new TV version of Harry Potter. The first of the audio dramas, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will be released on 4th November 2025, with each following release arriving monthly. The final instalment, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, will arrive on 12th May 2026. Harry Potter author JK Rowling has faced backlash in some quarters due to her views on transgender rights. In 2020, she published a lengthy statement detailing her stance on sex and gender debates – the essay was criticised and disputed by LGBTQ+ charities including Stonewall. Rowling has also shared her views on social media, including in a 2024 post on X (formerly Twitter), in which she insisted that “there are no trans kids” and opposed the idea that a child can be “born in the wrong body”. In May 2025, Rowling set up the JK Rowling Women’s Fund, which describes itself as offering legal funding support to “individuals and organisations fighting to retain women’s sex-based rights”. Harry Potter actors including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson, have distanced themselves from Rowling's views and have issued statements supporting the transgender community. Others, including Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter and Jim Broadbent, have defended the author from the criticism she has received. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone: The Full-Cast Audio Edition will be released on Tuesday 4th November and is available to pre-order here. Read our list of the best audiobooks on Audible to listen to right now. Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Pride and Prejudice's latest adaptation has 'stubborn, vulnerable' Elizabeth Bennet, reveals BAFTA winner
Marisa Abela is playing Elizabeth Bennet in Audible's new version of Jane Austen's masterwork.
Audible's new full-cast audio drama version of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice is now available to listen to in full, starring Marisa Abela as Elizabeth Bennet and Harris Dickinson as Mr Darcy. Abela, who won a BAFTA for her role in Industry earlier this year, spoke exclusively with Radio Times about her version of Elizabeth, and what she wanted to bring to the character. "She's a very wilful character, a very stubborn character, especially at the beginning, so that was incredibly fun to play," Abela said. "Her wit is the thing that I found most compelling about her, even when I was first introduced to the book, so I knew that she needed to feel quick and smart. "But there's a softness that's there throughout, and a vulnerability that's there throughout. I'm very excited to be added to the list of people that have given it a go." View oEmbed on the source website Abela also spoke about why she thinks Jane Austen's works are so adaptable, with Pride and Prejudice having been brought to so many different mediums so many times and counting (there's new Netflix version also on the way). "She speaks to the human experience, which is often about falling in love, conflict, getting over yourself, getting over your own insecurities and your own flaws, and meeting another person," Abela said. "I think she's just brilliant at situational romance, and I think that we can all sort of put ourselves in those moments. "It's so easy to place yourself inside her world. I think she's also an incredibly smart woman, and everything feels very modern. It's kind of shocking when you read Pride and Prejudice and they feel like characters that you could go and meet today. I think that kind of classic romance really just does stand the test of time, clearly." Amongst the other stars to feature in Audible's new Pride and Prejudice are Marianne Jean-Baptiste as Mrs Bennet, Bill Nighy as Mr Bennet and Glenn Close as Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Pride and Prejudice is available to purchase and listen to now at <a title="https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/re0zCK69NS99BkOi3iWF5aHXT?domain=audible.co.uk" href="https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Pride-and-Prejudice-Audiobook/B0FBS55SLD?eac_link=lDqaGgU4lP3Z&ref=web_search_eac_asin_2&eac_selected_type=asin&eac_selected=B0FBS55SLD&qid=woaNrg56MZ&eac_id=258-6868121-2582923_woaNrg56MZ&sr=1-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-outlook-id="eeab429c-2181-4603-9076-2be949663e7d">www.audible.co.uk. Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Harry Potter TV series's Hermione star to reprise role for all-new audio adaptations from JK Rowling
Rowling's original seven novels are being brought to life in new full-cast audiobooks.
A series of brand-new Harry Potter audiobooks have been announced, with a starry cast of over 200 actors taking on JK Rowling's novels. The series, which is called Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions, comes from Pottermore Publishing and Audible Inc, and will include all seven of the original Potter novels. They will include high-quality sound design in Dolby Atmos, as well as new scoring, original music, and real-world sound capture. The first audiobook, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will debut on Tuesday 4th November 2025, with the remaining six English-language audiobooks releasing monthly. Production has nearly wrapped, and the audiobooks can be pre-ordered now. Notably, the audio series shares a cast member with the upcoming HBO TV show - Arabella Stanton will play Hermione Granger in both the show and the first three audiobooks. View Green Video on the source website Other actors taking part include Cush Jumbo as the narrator, Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape and Michelle Gomez as Professor McGonagall. Meanwhile, Frankie Treadaway and Max Lester will play Harry and Ron respectively in the first three audiobooks, with Jaxon Knopf and Rhys Mulligan taking over for books four through seven. Nina Barker-Francis will play Hermione in these titles. Laurie said in a statement: "I’m honoured to have been trusted with the keys to Albus Dumbledore, and thrilled to be able to take him around the track of this beautiful incarnation by Pottermore and Audible. "I’m also deeply conscious of previous drivers Richard Harris, Michael Gambon, Jude Law and the iconic narrations by Jim Dale and m’colleague Sir Stephen Fry. "Just below the horizon, but headed our way, is the rough beast John Lithgow, his hour come round at last. This is great company, and it’s a privilege to be among their number." Meanwhile, Rachel Ghiazza, chief content officer at Audible, said: "Magic is coming alive as these brilliant actors lift iconic characters off the page and into our ears. Hearing these spellbinding performances in our state-of-the-art studios has been nothing short of extraordinary. "We’re overjoyed to share that fans of all ages can now mark their autumn calendars for a truly breathtaking experience with Audible and Pottermore Publishing – one that promises to reignite the magic for longtime fans and captivate a whole new generation of listeners." The last of the audiobooks will arrive one year before the HBO series is expected to debut, with that show filming now, but not set for release until 2027. Harry Potter author JK Rowling has faced backlash in some quarters due to her views on transgender rights. In 2020, she published a lengthy statement detailing her stance on sex and gender debates – the essay was criticised and disputed by LGBTQ+ charities including Stonewall. Rowling has also shared her views on social media, including in a 2024 post on X (formerly Twitter), in which she insisted that "there are no trans kids" and opposed the idea that a child can be "born in the wrong body". In May 2025, Rowling set up the JK Rowling Women’s Fund, which describes itself as offering legal funding support to "individuals and organisations fighting to retain women’s sex-based rights". Harry Potter actors including Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson have distanced themselves from Rowling's views and have issued statements supporting the transgender community. Others, including Ralph Fiennes, Helena Bonham Carter and Jim Broadbent, have defended the author from the criticism she has received. The first of the Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions will arrive on 4th November 2025 on Audible. Start your 30 day free Audible trial at Amazon. The Harry Potter TV series will stream on HBO Max. Check out more of our Audio and Fantasy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Emma Thompson returns to Sense and Sensibility with unexpected sequel in very different format
Brand new audiobook Becoming Meg Dashwood will launch on Audible in October.
Throughout her storied career, Emma Thompson has had all sorts of memorable roles – but few can compare with her turn in Ang Lee's 1995 adaptation of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility. Not only was Thompson Oscar-nominated for her performance as Elinor Dashwood in the film, but she was also responsible for penning its Academy Award-winning script. It's understandable, then, that the star would continue to hold a special place in her heart for Austen's novel – and 30 years on, it's just been announced that she is set to return to the text for a brand new project. Becoming Meg Dashwood is a brand new audio drama that is set to launch exclusively on Audible in October, and will centre on the youngest Dashwood sister, Margaret – played by child star Emilie François in the previous film. Thompson will serve as an executive producer on the drama – which is written by Rebecca Humphries – and is set to take on the lead role of Margaret, alongside an all-star cast that also includes Adolescence's Erin Doherty as Margaret's younger self, Mickey 17's Naomi Ackie as her lover Nelly, and Silent Witness star Liz Carr as Mrs Dashwood. There are also roles in the cast for Baby Reindeer's Jessica Gunning, Peep Show's Paterson Joseph, and stage and screen legend Imelda Staunton, while Greg Wise – who starred as key character John Willoughby in the 1995 film – is back in a new role. The drama is billed as a "riotous, rebellious period drama about female friendship, sexuality and liberation", with Thompson saying she was "thrilled" to bring an "extraordinary drama" to life. She added: "Their vision for the youngest Dashwood sister takes us from Austen’s world into the more hidden parts of women’s lives, parts that were not written about at the time, at least not openly. "I think Austen would have been fascinated and delighted with the language and with the story, and gladdened by the desire to take one of her characters and give her a future and a big, unexpected voice." Meanwhile, Humphries said: "My first thought, when Audible asked for a take on Margaret Dashwood, was: Jane and Cassandra Austen never married. What if Margaret didn’t want to either? The only way to honour Jane Austen was to do what she did: take the love story and push it somewhere new. "This one’s about liberation, class, queerness, and all the things that on Jane’s 250th birthday we are still fighting to say out loud. Audible have assembled a true dream cast. I cannot wait for the world to hear them." This is the second major adaptation of Jane Austen to be announced by Audible in recent weeks, following news that a new version of Pride and Prejudice was set to be produced with an all-star cast led by Marisa Abela, Harris Dickinson and Glenn Close. It was also recently announced that a new film version of Sense and Sensibility was in the works, with Daisy-Edgar Jones and The Sandman star Esmé Creed-Miles taking on the lead roles of Elinor and Marianne, played by Thompson and Kate Winslet in the previous big-screen adaptation. The cast for the new version also includes Outlander star Caitríona Balfe as Elinor and Marianne's mother Mrs Dashwood, Joan's Frank Dillane as Marianne’s initial love interest John Willoughby, and Killing Eve's Fiona Shaw as Mrs Jennings. The official synopsis for Becoming Meg Dashwood reads: "Marriage is not for Margaret Dashwood. Where others see duty, Margaret sees entrapment and rage. "But when an invitation from family friend Mrs Jennings hurls her into the chaotic heart of Covent Garden and Soho, Margaret discovers an intoxicating world beyond afternoon tea and polite society. "Here she meets three women who live unapologetically: Nelly, an impulsive actress; Hester, a witch who works in the textile factory; and Inge, a sex worker who loves money and knows exactly how to get it. "Here, Margaret’s rage is celebrated, along with her musical talents, and in their fierce company she is reborn as Meg: artist, and woman of hidden fires. "All four women dare to imagine a life dictated by pleasure, politics, and possibility. But such a life demands sacrifice. Especially when Meg’s feelings for Nelly - tender, electric, terrifying - begin to deepen. How does one fall in love, when that love has no name?" Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Sheridan Smith and Joanne Froggatt lead fictional true crime podcast The Margate Murders
The series takes the form of improvised conversations between the actors.
Sheridan Smith and Joanne Froggatt are starring in a brand new fictional true crime podcast – which has just been made available to listen to on Audible. Titled The Margate Murders, the series is set in the titular seaside town and sees Smith and Froggatt play a former police detective and the editor of the local newspaper who both bore witness to a series of crimes spanning decades. According to Audible, despite the fact that the series is fictional, listeners are likely to "mistake it for a true-crime podcast" in part because it mostly takes the form of improvised conversations between the actors. "Sheridan, Joanne and the full cast were provided with scenarios and scene setting, from there the rest was up to them to improvise in the mind of their characters," a press release details. In addition to Smith and Froggatt, the drama also features the voices of a range of others involved, including a survivor, a suspect, a detective and forensic psychologist as they all recount, from their perspective, what happened. The synopsis continues: "As the story unfolds into a gripping hunt for an elusive serial killer, The Margate Murders calls into question whether can ever really trust what anyone says in a true crime podcast." Read more: Game of Thrones and Succession stars lead Agatha Christie Audible adaptation How does Audible work? How much it costs, how to get free books and how to cancel The series marks Audible’s first UK improvised production and is Smith’s first role in an audio drama. It is based on the popular Dutch podcast De Blankenberge Tapes, which was devised by Tom Hofland and Pascal van Hulst, while James Dobbyn is also credited as an additional writer. The Margate Murders is available exclusively on Audible now – get a free trial for Audible here. Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Game of Thrones and Succession stars lead Agatha Christie Audible adaptation
They join an incredibly star-studded cast.
Audible's adaptation of Agatha Christie's The Mysterious Affair at Styles has its Poirot! It has been announced that Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) will star as the formidable detective in a star-studded adapation of Christie's debut novel – releasing globally on November 14th. Starring alongside Dinklage are Himesh Patel (Yesterday), Harriet Walter (Succession), Rob Delaney (Catastrophe) and Jessica Gunning (Baby Reindeer). Further casting includes Phil Dunster (Ted Lasso), John Bradley (Game of Thrones), Vivian Oparah (Rye Lane) and Patsy Ferran (A Streetcar Named Desire). This Audible adaptation is being released as part of a new production deal with Agatha Christie Limited and tells the story of an injured and traumatised Captain Hastings (Patel), who has been invited to a large country estate to recover after serving in World War I. The synopsis continues: "With tensions tearing the family apart, what seems like a perfect haven soon turns into a nightmare, as the matriarch of the family Emily Inglethorp (Walter) dies suddenly one night, with her family swiftly realising her death was no accident. "With a full ensemble of characters with motives for the murder, nobody is above suspicion. As Hastings is desperate to solve the mystery and protect the family from fervent media speculation, he knows there is only one man who can help. "With his impeccable suit and exceptional insight, Hastings calls on the brilliant detective he once knew - Hercule Poirot (Dinklage)." This adaptation has been written by Anna Lea (Around the World in 80 Days) and directed by Alice Lowe (Prevenge) and features an original score by British actor and musician Johnny Flynn (The Detectorists) in collaboration with cellist and composer Joe Zeitlin. James Prichard, CEO and Chairman of Agatha Christie Limited said: "This project promises to push the boundaries of what audio can be. "The combination of an extraordinary cast, music by Johnny Flynn and the use of ground-breaking audio technology will make this a completely extraordinary telling of my great grandmother’s first story. "We are very excited to partner with Audible on this journey and work with them to bring this story to life." The Mysterious Affair at Styles will be available exclusively on Audible on 14th November. Available now to pre-order at www.audible.co.uk Audible membership may be required. Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Richard Armitage's The Stranger co-star joins cast of his new Audible thriller
Jacob Dudman and Richard Armitage are reuniting in The Cut.
Richard Armitage is no stranger to a good TV thriller but is now turning his hands to gripping audio dramas including his very own Audible title, The Cut. With The Cut being Armitage's second Audible Original fiction title, The Cut is also set to reunite Armitage with his The Stranger co-star Jacob Dudman. Having starred as father and son in the Netflix Harlan Coben adaptation series, the pair will reunite in The Cut as co-leads. The new Audible series will follow protagonist Ben Knot across two timelines, with Dudman narrating Ben’s past and Armitage narrating his current day. As per the synopsis: "The Cut is set in the sleepy village of Barton Mallet, where the old ruins of Blackstone Mill watch over the residents as they go about their quiet lives. Ben Knot and his friends are looking forward to a summer of fun and freedom once their last year of school is over. "The class of 1994 have been through a lot together, good and bad, but teasing turns to bullying when the Knot gang target younger boy Mark Cherry. As tensions rise and violence escalates, the group fractures and tragedy strikes. Before the summer is over, one of them will be killed. Murdered by someone they called a friend." It continues: "Thirty years on, Ben is an award-winning architect who has moved his family – his girlfriend and two kids - back to the village where he grew up, and things are starting to unravel. Ben’s glittering career is starting to tarnish as some shady business deals have put him on the path to bankruptcy, and the murderer from all those years ago is poised to be released from prison. "When Ben’s son Nate, a budding actor, lands the leading role in a new horror movie, and the film crew descend on the village to start shooting, Ben’s paranoia makes him question the film makers’ motives. Ben is desperate for answers and will stop at nothing to keep his family safe. If the first cut is the deepest, then the last cut is going to end it all." Read more: ITV boss criticises BBC over US acquisitions amid funding troubles Buffy and Luther stars join new audio sci-fi crime drama Vam PD On the announcement of Dudman's casting, author and star of The Cut, Armitage, said: "I was so thrilled Jacob said yes. I’m honoured that he’s bringing his vocal skill and sensitivity as an actor to The Cut. He totally rocks the ‘90s." Dudman also said of his role: "Richard’s ability to draw us in is what makes him such a phenomenal talent, and a wonderful man. I am honoured to have been trusted with such an intimate story, teeming with heart and humour. A wonderful audiobook that I didn’t want to end." Of course, Armitage is no stranger to the TV screen having recently starred in ITV's Red Eye and Fool Me Once and having been recently confirmed as joining the cast of Netflix's latest Harlan Coben adaptation, Missing You. Dudman is also known for his roles in The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die, Medici and Fate: The Winx Saga. But this isn't his first foray into audio dramas, with Dudman having worked on various Doctor Who audio dramas for Big Finish Productions. The Cut is available to pre-order now and will exclusively be available on Audible on August 22nd 2024. Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Green Wing gets audio sequel with original cast returning
The beloved British sitcom is making a return – but not on TV.
Green Wing is making its long-awaited comeback – but not in the format that fans may be expecting. The East Hampton Hospital-set sitcom continues to have a soft spot in many comedy lover's hearts and now, it's getting the podcast treatment with an exciting Audible Original comedy, Green Wing: Resuscitated. The new six-part audio series will follow the beloved characters 12 years on and as if the news couldn't be more exciting, fans will be delighted to learn that the original cast will all be making their anticipated returns. That means that Stephen Mangan, Julian Rhind-Tutt, Tamsin Greig, Pippa Haywood and Olivia Colman will all be reprising their roles, as well as Mark Heap, Oliver Chris, Michelle Gomez, Karl Theobald, plus a full ensemble cast. The new six-parter will surely take listeners back to the original series, which debuted in 2004 and was last seen on our screens for the final episode in 2007. The podcast series will be created once again by Victoria Pile, and is also being penned by original Green Wing writers Robert Harley, James Henry, Oriane Messina and Fay Rusling. View oEmbed on the source website And there's plenty of drama to come as, according to the synopsis: "Established fans and new listeners alike will be treated to more surreal twists and turns in the lives and loves of East Hampton’s staff." The series was known for its sketch-like format and twists as we followed the lives of the staff at East Hampton Hospital, a slightly surreal hospital that resulted in all kinds of mishaps and hilarity. Of course, the series is also of note for how many recognisable faces starred in it, like The Crown's Olivia Colman, The Split's Stephen Mangan and Friday Night Dinner's Tamsin Greig, to name just a few. Mangan previously spoke to RadioTimes.com about the possibility of doing any future episodes of Green Wing, saying: "Maybe in five years we’ll be desperate for the money… It’ll always be one of the things I’m most proud of." He also opened up about the lack of awards for the sitcom at the time, saying: "It didn’t really win any awards because Little Britain was out at the same time. That won everything. David Walliams would just keep coming down from the podium holding his award and flick us the Vs." Read more: Inside No. 9 confirms air date for 9th and final season Bluey reveals huge viewing figures on Disney Plus after The Sign special But that's not the only exciting thing in the pipeline for fans of Green Wing, as it was previously also announced last year that the writers behind the British sitcom will be bringing us a brand new ITVX comedy series called Piglets. The series will focus on six new recruits at a fictional police training college and will be written by Victoria Pile, Robert Harley, James Henry, Oriane Messina and Fay Rusling, as well as Omar Khan, who was a participant in the ITV Comedy Writers Initiative. View Green Video on the source website All episodes of Green Wing: Resuscitated will be released exclusively on Audible on Monday 29th April. Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what else is on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Buffy spin-off audio series Slayers cancelled after one season
Spike and Oz won't be crossing paths after all.
There won't be another season of Slayers: A Buffyverse Story, its co-author has confirmed. The audio project premiered on Audible last year and featured fan favourite Buffy cast members, including James Marsters (Spike), Juliet Landau (Drusilla), Charisma Carpenter (Cordelia), Anthony Head (Giles), Emma Caulfield (Anya) and Amber Benson (Tara). Speaking to RadioTimes.com, Marsters himself had hinted at the possibility of bringing in Oz (Seth Green) should the series return. "I am not in control of any of these decisions but I have fingers crossed that Oz will be making an appearance when we go back and do more," Marsters said at the time. Sadly, though, it looks like Spike and Oz won't cross paths, as Slayers' co-author Christopher Golden revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that Disney will not allow Audible to continue with the project. "Hugely disappointed to share that, despite its enormous success, Disney has refused to allow Audible to proceed with future seasons of Slayers: A Buffyverse Story," he wrote. View oEmbed on the source website Golden went on to say that the media giant hadn't provided an explanation as to why Audible wouldn't be able to continue the story. "Working with this cast, the production team, and the folks at Audible UK -- and seeing the joy in the fan community -- has been one of the happiest experiences of my career. "I'm sorry we won't be able to continue on, but I'm so glad we were able to bring these characters back to you," he added. The first season is available to listen to in full on Audible. Read more: David Tennant reacts to kissing Michael Sheen in Good Omens: ‘It was fun’ Daniel Dae Kim based Avatar: The Last Airbender villain on real politicians Slayers: A Buffyverse Story is available on Audible now. Check out more of our Fantasy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Andrew Garfield and Tom Hardy for all-new 1984 adaptation
Andrew Scott and Cynthia Erivo are also attached to the starry project.
Andrew Garfield and Tom Hardy are to play the iconic roles of Winston Smith and Big Brother in an audio adaptation of George Orwell's world-famous novel, 1984. The dystopian tale is set in a nightmarish future, where a superstate named Oceania is held in the grip of a totalitarian leader, whose forces ensure freedom of thought and expression is harshly restricted. The story unfolds from the perspective of Winston, the archetypal 'everyman', who begins to question the regime and – together with his colleague and lover, Julia (Cynthia Erivo) – seeks out a resistance group called The Brotherhood. This latest adaptation also features celebrated Fleabag and All of Us Strangers star Andrew Scott as O'Brien, a mysterious figure who crosses paths with Winston and Julia on their journey. This full cast for the audio drama also features Romesh Ranganathan as Parsons, Natasia Demetriou as Mrs Parsons, Chukwudi Iwuji as Charrington, Francesca Mills as Syme, Katie Leung as Ling and Alex Lawther as Ampleforth. For Lawther, 1984 marks a reunion with director Destiny Ekaragha, who previously helmed episodes of Channel 4 comedy-drama The End of the F***ing World, which proved to be his breakout project. Ekaragha said: "This is my first experience directing an audio drama, and what an honour it was to work so closely with a cast of this calibre. I can't wait for everyone to hear what the Andrews, Cynthia and Tom have done with these iconic characters." 1984 will be available to listen to on Audible from Thursday 4th April 2023, marking exactly 40 years since Winston's first diary entry in the classic novel. The title is available for pre-order now through Audible. In addition to the high-profile actors, the production also features music from Muse frontman Matthew Bellamy and composer Ilan Eshkeri (Informer), who have crafted an original score performed by a 60-piece orchestra at Abbey Road studios. The soundtrack includes two re-workings of Muse songs. Aurelie de Troyer, Head of Regional Content, Europe at Audible, added: "This is 1984 like you've never heard it before. "We've assembled a top team of creatives across the board, and the combination of the principal cast and Matt and Ilan's epic soundtrack is something quite extraordinary. "Andrew Garfield was born to play Winston – just wait until you hear his performance." George Orwell’s 1984, an Audible Original, is planned to release globally on April 4th 2024. Sign up to Audible here – or pre-order 1984 here. Check out our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10 – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Good Omens and Game of Thrones stars lead new time travel audio drama
The Salvation is set to be your new sci-fi podcast favourite.
If you're a fan of sci-fi and podcasts, you'll want to continue reading to find out more about upcoming series The Salvation. The new eight-part audio run is set to be a unique time travelling experience which will feature themes like mental health and race against a backdrop of action and espionage. Not only is it set to be a mind-bending kind of audio adventure, but the new series also stars Ariyon Bakare (Good Omens), Rose Leslie (Vigil) and Toby Jones (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny). According to Deadline, the podcasts will follow David Miller (Bakare), a "war-scarred veteran grappling with PTSD, who discovers his traumatic flashbacks are gateways to time travel". The synopsis continues: "Recruited by the shadowy Fallen Arrow, he undergoes a surreal transformation into a time agent, wielding a unique power triggered by 'The Lullaby'. "He is told to apprehend a rogue soldier wreaking havoc throughout history, with his perilous mission taking to pivotal moments in history such as the Great War and the Cold War. "Navigating a secret war for time-altering technology, Miller has to safeguard his newfound abilities from rival factions." Read more: Toby Jones and Happy Valley stars join cast of ITV's Ruth Ellis drama Suranne Jones in first look at Vigil as season 2 takes to the skies The series comes from entertainment company Fresh Produce Media and producers Free Turn Entertainment, with Free Turn CEO Jon Hamm saying: "Our vision for The Salvation was to craft an utterly immersive auditory journey for our audience. "It mirrors our ambition of producing a blockbuster Hollywood feature film within the realm of audio. With a stellar cast, top-tier audio design and an original score, we’ve assembled all the essential elements to transport our listeners into the thrilling worlds of time travel and espionage. "From the humble huts of Bletchley in 1945 to the bustling streets of 1970s Berlin, the harrowing battlefields of France in 1918 to the terrifying scenes of today’s modern warfare, we invite our audience to step into these vividly realised worlds." Similarly, the chief content officer for Fresh Produce Media, Colin Moore, added: "The Salvation is a great example of our approach to storytelling in audio, highlighting the immense talents of our voice actors to really grip the audience and transport them into the action – in this case, a sci-fi adventure story that will resonate in the US, UK and beyond." This isn't the only Toby Jones-fronted project making headlines right now, as he's currently starring in ITV's The Long Shadow and has just been confirmed to play a key role in ITV's upcoming Ruth Ellis drama. The series will see Jones play the role of Ellis's solicitor, John Bickford, who "gradually realises the extent of Ruth's abuse at the hands of David Blakely – and takes on the fight to make the case for provocation". View Green Video on the source website The Salvation will be available to listen to on Audible on Thursday 5th October. Check out our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Buffy sequel announced for Audible with James Marsters, more returning
Marsters will lead the cast of Slayers: A Buffyverse Story.
Big news Buffy fans - we're officially about to re-enter the Buffyverse in a brand-new sequel story! A new audio project set in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer universe, called Slayers: A Buffyverse Story, has been announced by Audible with a number of the original show's cast returning. The cast members set to return for Slayers include James Marsters (Spike), Charisma Carpenter (Cordelia Chase), Anthony Head (Rupert Giles), Juliet Landau (Drusilla), Emma Caulfield (Anya Jenkins), Amber Benson (Tara Maclay), James C Leary (Clem) and Danny Strong (Jonathan Levinson). They will be joined by new cast member Laya DeLeon Hayes. The audio story, which comes from Benson alongside writer Christopher Golden, will pick up 10 years after the events of the final episode of Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and will find Spike having gone deep undercover in Los Angeles, convincing the forces of darkness that he’s back to his evil ways. However, when his cover is compromised by sixteen-year-old Indira Nunnally, he finds himself on baby-slayer-sitting duty once more. View oEmbed on the source website While he attempts to track down a watcher for Indira, their paths collide with the veteran Slayer of a parallel reality where Buffy Summers never existed and where Cordelia Chase is the one-and-only Slayer. She needs Spike’s help with stopping Drusilla, who is terrorising her world. Read more: Buffy star James Marsters answers fan questions – reveals favourite episodes Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans crown the best episode of all time Marsters said: "I’m ecstatic to be back with my dear friends for this next chapter in the Buffyverse, as we take listeners on a familiar but unexpected journey chock full of horror, passion and mischief. I’m excited for old and new fans to experience this beloved world of vampire slaying like never before, brought to life through immersive audio storytelling." Meanwhile, Rachel Ghiazza, Chief Content Officer at Audible said: "Slayers: A Buffyverse Story offers a fresh, dynamic take on a cult-classic that takes listeners on a fun and nostalgic ride. The all-star cast reprising beloved roles, as well as newcomers, bring to life a storyline that will entertain fans of the original series and pull in first-time Sunnydale visitors." The cast and creatives behind the project will take to in a panel at New York Comic Con in October to provide additional details. One notable absence from the cast list is, of course, Sarah Michelle Gellar. However, it shouldn't be surprising, as Gellar previously said she wouldn't be returning to the character. Gellar said that she would support a reboot of the show, saying "it’s set up perfectly for someone else to have the power", but added: "the metaphors of Buffy were the horrors of adolescence. I think I look young, but I am not an adolescent." View Green Video on the source website Slayers: A Buffyverse Story will be available on Audible beginning 12th October 2023 - get a free trial for Audible here. Check out more of our Fantasy coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa takes the lead in David Copperfield audio
Gatwa leads the cast in the new audio drama from Sam Mendes.
Following his all-star adaptation of Oliver Twist last year, the cast has now been announced for Skyfall and Spectre director Sam Mendes's audio adaptation of Charles Dickens's David Copperfield. Starring in the title role of the Academy Award-winning director's re-telling of the story will be new Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa, while he will be joined by The Crown's Helena Bonham Carter as Aunt Betsey Trotwood and The White Lotus's Theo James as James Steerforth. Also featuring in the audio drama will be Jessie Buckley (Women Talking), Richard Armitage (Obsession), Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), Toby Jones (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny), Ralph Ineson (The Gallows Pole), Indira Varma (Extrapolations) and Katy Wix (Ghosts). As in the novel, Mendes's version of David Copperfield will see Gatwa's hero finding his way in a challenging world. You can pre-order the audio drama, which will be released on 30th November, right here now. The official synopsis for the audio drama says: "We journey with David as he comes across his eccentric Aunt Betsey, the faithful Peggotty and loquacious Mr Micawber, comes up against the villainous Micawbers and Uriah Heep, and falls in love with Little Em'ly, Dora and Agnes. Read more: Doctor Who's Ncuti Gatwa says his incarnation is "emotionally vulnerable" Ncuti Gatwa: 'Doctor Who is ultimately about kindness and acceptance' "And then there is old school friend James Steerforth, dashing, daring and seductive. This dramatisation explores the complexities and intimacies of that relationship beyond anything possible in Dickens's day, in an adaptation giving fresh life and vividness to this beloved tale." Mendes said: "I'm thrilled to continue my collaboration with Audible after the success of Oliver Twist, and where better to go next than to David Copperfield, which for so many – and indeed for Dickens himself – is a favourite amongst his canon?" He continued: "We have an outstanding cast, led by the incomparable Ncuti Gatwa, whose amazing comic timing brings new dimensions to the character of David. "In the sound design we’ve leaned into hyper realism so that the listener really feels like they’re on the journey with David through his misfortunes and triumphs. Another feast for the ears." View Green Video on the source website Sam Mendes’s David Copperfield is available to pre-order now at Audible - get a free trial for Audible here. and will be released on 30th November 2023. Check out more of our Audio coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. Try Radio Times magazine today and get 10 issues for only £10, PLUS a £10 John Lewis and Partners voucher delivered to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Brian Cox and Daniel Kaluuya star in Oliver Twist audio adaptation
The new audiobook has been produced by Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes.
Audible has unveiled its brand-new all-star audiobook version of Oliver Twist, produced by Oscar-winning director Sam Mendes (Skyfall, 1917). It stars Brian Cox (Succession) as Fagin, Daniel Kaluuya (Nope) as Bill Sikes, Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) as Nancy and Emilio Villa-Muhammad (The Man Who Fell to Earth) as Oliver. The stacked cast also includes Kit Connor (Heartstopper), Paapa Essiedu (The Capture), Julia Davis (Gavin & Stacey), Nick Mohammed (Ted Lasso), Patricia Allison (Sex Education), Diane Morgan (Motherland) and Lucian Msamati (Gangs of London). The audiobook is released today (30th November) – you can listen to it right here or sign up for a 30-day free trial of Audible here. Cox said: “Dickens was a genius storyteller and Oliver Twist may be his greatest ever work. Reimagining a character as complex and changeable as Fagin offers a real challenge for an actor, and I hope listeners enjoy our telling of this masterpiece.” View oEmbed on the source website Kaluuya added: "There are few villains as infamous or terrifying as Bill Sikes, and I really enjoyed getting the chance to record a new take on him for Audible. Keep the lights on – some of his scenes are really dark." Meanwhile, Mendes said: "Dickens was the ultimate storyteller, and hearing Oliver Twist come to life in such a compelling, 3D way feels exactly how he might have wanted it to be experienced. "The cast is fantastic, and I’ve never heard an audio production before that is so filmic. It’s cinema for the ears." The new audio drama tells Dickens's classic story, with young orphan Oliver born into a grim 19th century workhouse, yet later being evicted and eventually getting ingratiated into a gang of young pickpockets led by the Artful Dodger (Elijah Wolf) and Cox's Fagin. The audiobook features an original score from Dan Gillespie-Sells, and includes Foley recordings captured in Dickens’s former London house at 48 Doughty Street, in the rooms where he originally wrote the novel. Two more Audible Original adaptations of Charles Dickens classics are set to be produced by Mendes, with the second instalment in this trilogy being released next year. Other recent releases from Audible include Richard Armitage's debut audiobook Geneva, which also features Armitage's former Spooks co-star Nicola Walker. Sam Mendes' Oliver Twist is available now exclusively on Audible - sign up for a 30-day free trial of Audible here. Looking for something to watch? Visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Richard Armitage wants a TV adaptation of his new audiobook
Armitage's audiobook Geneva is out now and also stars Nicola Walker.
Fresh from appearing in Harlan Coben's Stay Close On Netflix last year, Richard Armitage's latest project is another thriller but this time it's one that he's written himself. Armitage's brand-new audiobook, which he also stars in alongside Nicola Walker, is called Geneva. It tells the story of a Nobel Prize winning scientist and her husband who travel to Switzerland for a vital conference, and becoming wrapped up in the revolutionary work of the enigmatic Mauritz Schiller. From there, a high-stakes game ensues. Armitage spoke exclusively with RadioTimes.com about the project, and it seems audiences could be seeing a TV adaptation of the thriller in the future. When asked whether he has ever visited Geneva himself, Armitage revealed he actually went there to scout locations. He said: "I was writing initially from memory because I visited there a long time ago, I think in the early 2000s. And then I wanted to go in winter time but I got caught up in a film project so I couldn't go." View oEmbed on the source website He continued: "But I went at the first opportunity, I mean the book had been written but I went and did a research trip where I went to all of the locations and made sure all of the journeys were the correct length, and just sort of picked up some tiny little details that you can only get from visiting, you can't get it from Google Earth. "But it was brilliant, it was really exciting to stumble on things that I'm like, 'oh, that can be the cabin in the woods!'. And I found the location of where the Schiller Institute would be and so I did a bit of a location recce for myself, so when I come to make the TV show I'll know exactly where to go." Asked whether a TV adaptation is something he would want to pursue, Armitage said: "Absolutely! I mean as soon as I can get this under the nose of some people in high places, I will certainly sort of start gifting it to them for Christmas, like 'here’s my audiobook, happy Christmas!'." Alongside his live-action roles Armitage is known for voicing Trevor Belmont on Netflix's animated series Castlevania, which is set to continue with a sequel series currently in development called Castlevania: Nocturne. Geneva will be available exclusively on Audible in November 2022. www.audible.co.uk. Looking for something to watch? Check out our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
Richard Armitage: Spooks scene inspired Nicola Walker audiobook casting
Armitage's new audiobook Geneva is available now.
The Hobbit and The Stranger star Richard Armitage is no stranger to voice work, but his most recent audiobook is a project which is an entirely new venture for the actor - he is not only starring in the audio drama, but he has also written it. Armitage's audiobook is Geneva, an Audible exclusive thriller which follows Nobel Prize-winning scientist Sarah Schaffer and her husband Daniel, who become entangled in a high stakes game after travelling to Switzerland for a vital conference Sarah is voiced by Nicola Walker, with the project making for a Spooks reunion with Armitage, after the pair starred in that BBC show as Ruth Evershed and Lucas North. Armitage spoke about his new audiobook exclusively with RadioTimes.com, and it turns out that the pair's Spooks played an even bigger role in Walker's casting than it might have originally seemed. View oEmbed on the source website Armitage said: "It's interesting, because there were quite a few names being thrown around. And Audible were so brilliant to me, they said 'you can choose your reader'. But I also felt like, and I feel this about anything that I'm developing, I have to slightly step back from it because otherwise you just end up hiring your friends. And I wanted the best person for the role. "But when her name came up, it was literally in the same week that I had written a scene which in retrospect was a subliminal recall of a scene I've actually played with Nicola in Spooks where she's tied up and drugged at the end of Lucas North’s story. "And when I saw Nicola’s name on the page, I was like 'that's serendipity', because I'd literally just had her face in my head, accidentally. So I thought she was going to be perfect. And so I said 'I'd be happy with this selection', and then it just so happened that it was Nicola so I was really thrilled. "She's such an actor of gravity, I thought she'll be perfect for this role and she will make it her own. So I felt very honoured that she said yes." Armitage is also set to star in an upcoming Netflix series Damage, which also features Charlie Murphy and Indira Varma and is based on the 1991 novella of the same name from Josephine Hart. Geneva will be available exclusively on Audible in November 2022. www.audible.co.uk. Looking for something to watch? Check out our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times View From My Sofa podcast.
The Sandman star wasn’t influenced by James McAvoy’s Dream
Tom Sturridge is the second actor to step into the role – but the first to do so in live-action.
The Sandman star Tom Sturridge has revealed that he "didn't listen" to the Audible adaptation of Neil Gaiman's famous comic book, in which his role was played by His Dark Materials star James McAvoy. The epic fantasy saga follows Dream of the Endless, who rules over dreams and nightmares in his otherworldly kingdom, but finds his power sapped away after spending an entire century imprisoned by occultists. When he finally breaks free, it is his duty to restore order to a world that has fallen into chaos, as previously depicted in Gaiman's original The Sandman comic book and the recent Audible version. Sign up for Audible now via Amazon Despite feeling some trepidation over finding Dream's voice, Sturridge told RadioTimes.com that he didn't consult McAvoy's interpretation as a reference, choosing instead to base it entirely on the original source material and Gaiman's advice. "It's really strange because I love these books so much," he said. "I've read them over and over again and you feel so familiar with each character when you've done that, but you forget that you've never heard them. You really do forget that." One source of inspiration was Dream's speech bubbles in the graphic novels, where his voice is depicted in wavy, at times jagged, black boxes with a lettering style distinct from the other characters – often switching between lower case and capitals. "That does evoke something in me; I can't necessarily hear the voice, but I can hear the feeling," continued Sturridge. "And then very simply, I asked Neil, 'what does he sound like?'. "And he told me that he is the voice inside of your head. He's the voice that lulls you to sleep and that guides you through your dreams, which means that it has to have an authority and even a danger, but it has to be seductive enough for you to accept the invitation to follow him." On the topic of not being swayed by the Audible version, Sturridge's co-star Vivienne Acheampong – who plays the Dreaming's resident librarian Lucienne – added that "it just all feels very different". "I think that's why it's so special and I think that's why we're so lucky that we have Neil Gaiman, and that this is another version of something that he's created," she said. "Because we've got the comics, we've got the Audible – which I absolutely love – but at no moment did I even consider that because, for this, we were given such freedom. It was so collaborative." The Sandman boasts a star-studded cast that also includes Jenna Coleman (Doctor Who), Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones), Boyd Holbrook (Logan) and Stephen Fry (Heartstopper). The Sandman is available to stream on Netflix from Friday 5th August. Sign up for Audible now via Amazon. Check out more of our Fantasy coverage or visit our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times podcast with Jane Garvey.
Richard Armitage to release debut book on Audible
First details are out on the brand new psychological thriller.
The debut fiction novel from Richard Armitage will be released exclusively as an Audible Original later this year, it was announced today. Known for his past collaborations with Peter Jackson on The Hobbit trilogy along with Harlan Coben on Netflix dramas The Stranger and Stay Close, the actor is now turning his hand to crafting his own story. Geneva is billed as a psychological thriller which follows Nobel Prize-winning scientist Sarah Schaffer and her husband, Daniel, who become entangled in a high stakes game after travelling to Switzerland for a vital conference. Uncertain of who they can trust, the couple soon begins to question everything they thought they knew about their work and their marriage, which places an extraordinary strain on their sanity. Richard Armitage said: "The process of creating an original story has been an exciting opportunity for me. Crafting a psychological thriller, springing from a fascination with science and technology, and deep love of this genre is a dream come true. I’m honoured that Audible have chosen their platform as a place for my debut as a writer." Previously, the Castlevania voice actor has worked with Audible as a narrator on several titles – including the best-selling Jackman & Evans series – with the service describing him as a "listener favourite". Aurelie De Troyer, Senior Vice President of International Content at Audible, added: "We’re proud to have a longstanding relationship with Richard as one of our most celebrated narrators. We are even prouder to be releasing his authorial debut – a fast-paced character-driven thriller we know will have our listeners hooked." Geneva will be available exclusively on Audible in November 2022: www.audible.co.uk. Looking for something to watch? Check out our TV Guide to see what's on tonight. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times podcast with Jane Garvey.
Graham Norton Book Club announces season 3 line-up
The chart-topping podcast is back with some big stars.
Audible has announced The Graham Norton Book Club is returning for a third season today, with this new run featuring some seriously starry guests. The new 10-episode season will include guests such as Minnie Driver (Good Will Hunting, Starstruck), Indira Varma (Obi-Wan Kenobi, Game of Thrones), DJ and presenter Sara Cox and Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness. The series will also feature Sheila Hancock (Unforgotten), Wil Wheaton (Star Trek: The Next Generation) and broadcaster Reverend Richard Coles. Norton said: "I've so enjoyed returning to my book club for a third series. There are some new clubbers joining the old gang and the range of authors we talk to is brilliantly mixed. "From Jilly Cooper to Bryan Washington, Ann Cleeves to Sheila Heti. It really doesn't matter what sort of book worm you are, you'll find something juicy in this club!" The new season will once again see Norton discussing all things literary and audio with his alternating co-hosts, journalist Alex Clark and author Sara Collins, as well as book-clubbers from across the country. Norton will provide book reviews, reading recommendations and publishing news, as well as interviews with renowned authors including Vera creator Ann Cleeves, Maggie O’Farrell (Hamnet), Jilly Cooper (Riders), Bryan Washington (Memorial) and Gwendoline Riley (Cold Water). Others set to feature include Earl Lovelace (Is Just a Movie), NK Jemisin (The Fifth Season), Jonathan Coe (Middle England) and Salena Godden (Mrs Death Misses Death). Celebrity guests who have appeared on previous seasons of the podcast include Dave Grohl, Derren Brown and Miriam Margolyes amongst many others. The most recent episode was released in December last year. The Graham Norton Book Club season 3 starts today, 9th June 2022. It will be available free for Audible members, or free to download with Audible’s 30-day trial. You can sign up to Audible via the Amazon website. Find something to watch with our TV guide. The latest issue of Radio Times magazine is on sale now – subscribe now and get the next 12 issues for only £1. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to the Radio Times podcast with Jane Garvey.
Idris and Sabrina Elba launch Coupledom podcast with line-up of A-list stars including Kim Kardashian
Coupledom will delve into the world of "extraordinary partnerships".
Audible has announced a brand new Original podcast hosted by Idris Elba and his wife Sabrina. The podcast, titled Coupledom with Idris and Sabrina Elba, will explore extraordinary partnerships and feature a star-studded guest lineup, including Kim Kardashian alongside momager Kris Jenner. The pair and their A-list guests will delve into what makes these couplings so powerful and the challenges of maintaining their relationships. A statement released by Audible adds that Idris and Sabrina "will engage in frank, free-flowing and thought-provoking discussions for listeners to incorporate into their own partnership. The series will also explore challenging first-hand experiences of arranged marriage, discrimination and representation." Speaking of the announcement, Sabrina Elba said: “Coupledom to myself and Idris, means the realm of shared experiences between two partners in life or business, creating extraordinary outcomes. In our Audible Original podcast, we’ve truly been able to explore ‘Coupledom’ through some of the world’s most interesting duos for honest, unguarded discussions about all the complexities of living a shared life. "I’ve taken so many lessons from our guests’ unique partnerships and I hope listeners of the podcast will be just as inspired as I have been.” The Cats and Luther actor met Sabrina in 2017. They married in 2o19. As well as the matriarchs of the Kardashian/Jenner clan, guests include duos like ice cream giants Ben and Jerry, and Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain and her husband Abdal. Coupledom with Idris and Sabrina Elba is available to download on Audible from 24th of June. Listen to it for free with a 30-day trial of Audible. You can also check out our best free podcasts roundup for inspiration on what to listen next.
30+ of the best audiobooks for kids to download now
Keeping the kids entertained is no mean feat - especially if they're stuck indoors. And if you find it hard to get them opening up a book, another way to introduce them to the magic of literature is via the audiobook. The best source of spoken-word storytelling is, of course, Audible, a service that puts literally thousands of children's classics, old and new, at your disposal. You can both pay for Audible titles as a one-off purchase, or else subscribe on a monthly basis (and you'll find there's a 30-day trial to take advantage of, too). To find out more about subscription costs, make sure you read our how does Audible work explainer. We've put together a list of our favourite kids audiobooks that you'll find on Audible. Many of these have even been narrated by the authors themselves - who better to tell a story that the person who wrote it? Others have been read by actors and other high-profile figures. Read on for our pick of the best audiobooks for kids on Audible - from Roald Dahl to Rudyard Kipling. For adult titles, you may also want to check out our articles on the best Audible audiobooks and best free Audible podcasts. Listen for less – Audible deals in the Prime Early Access sale From the 10th October until 18th December, you can get Audible for just £2.99 a month! For your money, you’ll get one monthly credit to spend on an audiobook of your choice, plus access to countless free audiobooks and podcasts. Whether you want classic literature, cracking comedy or true crime – there’s something for everyone. Get Audible for £2.99 per month — then £7.99 (auto renews) 30 of the best audiobooks for kids From Roald Dahl to Philip Pullman and Beatrix Potter to David Walliams, there's a story for every child or young adult. Here's our pick of the best books on Audible for kids. 1. The Restless Girls By: Jessie Burton Narrated by: Thandie Newton Length: 2 hrs and 33 mins Read by actress Thandie Newton, this feminist retelling of a well-known fairytale follows twelve princesses, whose mother's death in a car accident has far reaching consequences when their father, King Alberto, attempts to ensure his daughters' safety at all costs — costing them their freedom... Buy the audiobook for £5.24 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 2. George's Marvellous Medicine By: Roald Dahl Narrated by: Derek Jacobi Length: 1 hr and 35 mins Narrated by the acclaimed actor Derek Jacobi, Roald Dahl's hilarious and grizzly tale follows eight-year-old George, who decides to teach his grouchy grandmother a lesson by brewing up a very special potion just for her, using everyday ingredients from around the house — with explosive and unexpected results... Dahl's Matilda is also available on Audible, and is voiced by Oscar-winner Kate Winslet. Buy the audiobook for £15.25 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 3. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone By: J.K. Rowling Narrated by: Stephen Fry Length: 8 hrs and 44 mins No one reads Harry Potter aloud better than the beloved Stephen Fry. Kick things off where it all began, at Number 4 Privet Drive, where the odious Dursleys have a sneaking suspicion that their rather unusual (or, more accurately, magical) connections are about to catch up with them — but nothing can prepare them for the small bundle left on their doorstep one night... Buy the audiobook for £17.99 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible Also available in the Harry Potter series: Book 2: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets Book 3: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Book 4: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire Book 5: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix Book 6: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince Book 7: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 4. The Jungle Book: The Mowgli Stories By: Rudyard Kipling Narrated by: Bill Bailey, Richard E. Grant, Colin Salmon, Tim McInnerny, Bernard Cribbins, Celia Imrie, Martin Shaw Length: 2 hrs and 30 mins This award-winning adaptation features an all-star cast that kids and adults alike will appreciate, with voices lent by Oscar nominee Richard E. Grant, Celia Imrie and Doctor Who's Bernard Cribbins, among others. The beloved tale follows Mowgli, a young human boy raised by wolves in the depths of the jungle. Buy the audiobook for £5.94 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 5. Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls 2 By: Francesca Cavallo, Elena Favilli Narrated by: Alicia Keys, Ashley Judd, Danai Gurira, Janeane Garofalo, Phillipa Soo, Esperanza Spalding, Samira Wiley, Mozhan Marnò, Rowan Blanchard Length: 3 hrs and 47 mins With the all-star slate of narrators including the Alicia Keys and Hamilton's Phillipa Soo, this brilliant compilation is the sequel to the New York Times bestseller, and takes kids through 100 empowering stories. Buy the audiobook for £9.62 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 6. Noughts and Crosses By: Malorie Blackman Narrated by: Syan Blake, Paul Chequer Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins Malorie Blackman's bestselling dystopian young adult novel follows Sephy, a member of the ruling black class, the 'Crosses', and her childhood friend Callum, a 'Nought' and member of the white underclass who were once slaves to the Crosses. Buy the audiobook for £19.33 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 7. Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them By: J.K. Rowling, Newt Scamander Narrated by: Eddie Redmayne Length: 1 hr and 54 mins Narrated by none other than Newt Scamander (aka Eddie Redmayne) himself, discover the inspiration behind the hit Harry Potter spin-off film series, starring Redmayne. JK Rowling presents a complete guide to magical beasts, from manticores to phoenixes and unicorns. Buy the audiobook for £12 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 8. Zog By: Julia Donaldson Narrated by: Imelda Staunton Length: 28 mins If you know a child who enjoyed BBC One's animated adaptation of Zog, why not introduce them to Julia Donaldson's original? Harry Potter's Imelda Staunton (she played the sickly-sweet and secretly evil Dolores Umbridge in the franchise) narrates. Donaldson's best-known work, The Gruffalo, is also available on Audible, and is narrated again by Staunton. Buy the audiobook for £4.37 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 9. Beatrix Potter: The Complete Tales By: Beatrix Potter Narrated by: Gary Bond, Michael Hordern, Rosemary Leach, Janet Maw Length: 5 hrs and 51 mins Peter Rabbit, Jemima Puddle-Duck, The Flopsy Bunnies, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, Squirrel Nutkin, Tom Kitten, Jeremy Fisher... Beatrix Potter's iconic animal characters are brought to life in this complete collection of her beloved children's tales, narrated by a range of talented readers, including Gary Bond. Buy the audiobook for £15.75 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 10. Winnie-the-Pooh: The Complete BBC collection By: A. A. Milne Narrated by: Alan Bennett Length: 3 hrs and 42 mins Alan Bennett narrates this compiled collection of A.A. Milne's iconic children's stories, following a bear with a taste for honey and who frequently gets himself into scrapes, along with his friends Tigger, Piglet, Kanga, Roo, Owl, Eeyore and Owl — and not to mention their human friend, a boy called Christopher Robin. Buy the audiobook for £15.74 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 11. The Complete Chronicles of Narnia By: C. S. Lewis Narrated by: Maurice Denham, Full Cast Length: 15 hrs and 7 mins Radio 4's classic full-cast dramatisations are preserved here, as well-known actors including Fiona Shaw and Timothy Spall lend their voices to bring C.S. Lewis' classic books to life. From The Magician’s Nephew to Prince Caspian and, of course, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the collection is perfectly rendered for kids of all ages. Buy the audiobook for £28 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 12. How to Train Your Dragon By: Cressida Cowell Narrated by: David Tennant Length: 3 hrs and 29 mins Broadchurch and Doctor Who star David Tennant - who also voiced a character in the How to Train Your Dragon films - tells the story of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III (otherwise known as Hiccup), the scrawny young Viking who defies all odds to become a feared dragon-trainer, 'The Dragon Whisperer' — with just a little help from his secret pet dragon... Buy the audiobook from £12.24 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 13. The Ice Monster By: David Walliams Narrated by: Jane Horrocks, Miriam Margolyes, Peter Serafinowicz, Nitin Ganatra, James Goode, David Walliams Length: 5 hrs and 40 mins Victorian London, and news arrives of a woolly mammoth found at the North Pole. Orphan Elsie is determined to see the 'ice monster' for herself, no matter what, and her journey takes her across London and all the way to the Arctic. Author David Walliams is joined by an ensemble cast. Buy the audiobook for £7.43 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 14. The Tales of Beedle the Bard By: J.K. Rowling Narrated by: Warwick Davis, Noma Dumezweni, Jason Isaacs, Jude Law, Evanna Lynch, Sally Mortemore, Bonnie Wright Length: 1 hour and 35 minutes This spin-off book from the Harry Potter universe consists of fairytales for wizarding children, including the story of the Deathly Hallows. The tales are narrated by stars of the films including Evanna Lynch who played Luna Lovegood, Bonnie Wright (Ginnie Weasley) and Jason Isaacs (Lucius Malfoy). At least 90% of the proceeds from this book go to The Lumos Foundation which helps children out of institutions across the world. Buy the audiobook for £10.50 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 15. The World’s Worst Teachers By: David Walliams Narrated by: David Walliams Length: 2 hours and 51 minutes This collection of 10 stories tells of a whole host of terrible teachers, from ones who are half monster to those who are terrified of children. The book follows the popular World’s Worst Children collection from much-loved children’s author David Walliams and is sure to keep kids laughing. Buy the audiobook for £6.99 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible Read the best David Walliams books here. 16. The Boy Who Grew Dragons By: Andy Shepherd Narrated by: Ewan Goddard Length: 3 hours and 8 minutes Tomas finds an usual tree at the bottom of his grandad's garden and can’t believe it when one of its fruit hatches into a real-life dragon, who he names Flicker. Tomas is just about figuring out how to look after his new friend when lots more dragons begin to hatch from the tree, too. Buy the audiobook for £13.12 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 17. Matilda By: Roald Dahl Narrated by: Kate Winslet Length: 4 hours and 18 minutes If kids haven’t already read the book, they’ll surely be familiar with Matilda from the film or even the stage play. A very clever child to not-so-clever parents in a school run by an evil headmistress, Matilda has a lot to deal with. Luckily, she has a friend in Miss Honey and some very special talents of her own. Buy the audiobook for £15.75 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 18. The Gruffalo By: Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Narrated by: Imelda Staunton Length: 25 minutes The much-loved story of the Gruffalo has become a modern classic. It follows as mouse on a stroll through the woods as he comes face to face with a big hungry Gruffalo. This audio edition is read by Imelda Staunton, who kids will know best as Dolores Umbridge in the Harry Potter Films. At 25 minutes long it’s not as long as most other tales, which might work better for younger children with a slightly shorter attention span. Buy the audiobook for £3.49 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 19. Northern Lights: His Dark Materials Trilogy By: Philip Pullman Narrated by: Philip Pullman Length: 10 hours and 45 minutes Philip Pullman’s trilogy won both the Carnegie Medal and Guardian Award and His Dark Materials has since been made into a TV series on BBC One. In the first book, 12-year old Lyra sets off on a rescue adventure with the help of a bear, a daemon and a witch-queen. This edition is read by the author and the following two books in the series are also available as audio versions. Buy the audiobook for £17.23 Free with a 30-day trial of Audible Also available in the His Dark Materials trilogy: Book 2: The Subtle Knife Book 3: The Amber Spyglass 20. The Boy at the Back of the Class By: Onjali Q. Rauf Narrated by: Imogen Wilde Length: 5 hours and 4 minutes This heart-warming story follows a 9-year-old child and his friends who find a new boy called Ahmet has joined their class. Ahmet doesn’t talk and he doesn’t like sherbet lemons which all seems very unusual, Then, they learn that Ahmet is a refugee and the friends decide to hatch a plan. Buy the audiobook for £10.49 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 21. The Tiger Who Came to Tea By: Judith Kerr Narrated by: Geraldine McEwan Length: 9 minutes Judith Kerr’s much-loved children’s classic is available as an audiobook for bedtime listening or daytime fun. It’s another short one at only nine minutes long so it’s great for younger kids. In the story, a hungry tiger arrives at the door of Sophie and her mum, just as they are about to have their tea. Buy the audiobook for £1.74 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 22. The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas By: John Boyne Narrated by: Michael Maloney Length: 4 hours and 55 minutes One of slightly older kids and a top pick for lessons in school, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas tells the story of a little German boy called Bruno during the Holocaust. They’ve moved to a strange house in the middle of nowhere, where Bruno makes friends with a little boy who lives on the other side of the chain fence. Shmuel is a little boy just like Bruno, except he always wears a pair of blue striped pyjamas. Buy the audiobook for £15.74 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 23. Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief By: Rick Riordan Narrated by: Jesse Bernstein Length: 10 hours Percy Jackson thought he was just a normal kid, but it turns out he is the son of a Greek God which makes him a “half-blood” with special powers. Now, somebody has stolen a lightning bolt from the powerful god Zeus and Percy needs to try and find it before it’s too late. This one is the first in a whole series of Percy Jackson books which can also be listened to. Buy the audiobook for £22.74 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible Also available in the Percy Jackson series: Book 2: Percy Jackson and the Sea of Monsters Book 3: Percy Jackson and the Titan’s Curse Book 4: Percy Jackson and the Battle of the Labyrinth Book 5: Percy Jackson and the Last Olympian Percy Jackson and the Greek Heroes 24. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory By: Roald Dahl Narrated by: Douglas Hodge Length: 3 hours and 17 minutes One of Roald Dahl’s most adored stories, Charlie and the Chocolate factory is known the world over and has been made and remade into Hollywood films. Charlie Bucket and his parents don’t have much money, so imagine his luck when he finds a coveted golden ticket in one of his scarcely afforded chocolate bars. The ticket means he gets to visit the curious chocolate maker Mr Willy Wonka and his fantastical factory. Buy the audiobook for £15.75 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 25. Room on the Broom By: Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Narrated by: Josie Lawrence Length: 24 minutes As a witch flies along on her broom, she offers rides to helpful forest friends who retrieve the lost items she drops along the way. Then, the broom breaks and the friends tumble down to where a hungry dragon is roaming around. Buy the audiobook for £3.49 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 26. The Hunger Games By: Suzanne Collins Narrated by: Tatiana Maslany Length: 10 hours and 35 minutes The first in the now famous trilogy, The Hunger Games is set in a world where an elite Capitol is surrounded by 12 impoverished districts who must each offer a teenager as tribute. The tributes fight to the death on the live TV show, so when Katniss Everdeen hears her younger sister’s name announced for their district, she volunteers to fight in her place. Buy the audiobook for £15.74 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible Book 2: Catching Fire Book 3: Mockingjay For the latest news and expert tips on getting the best deals this year, take a look at our Black Friday 2021 and Cyber Monday 2021 guides. 27. Funny Bones: The Collection By: Janet Ahlberg and Allan Ahlberg Narrated by: Stephen Mangan Length: 35 minutes This audio book is a collection of charming tales from the friendly skeleton pals as they go about their night-time adventures. The edition includes The Pet Shop, Bumps in the Night and Dinosaur Dreams among other tales. Buy the audiobook for £10.49 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 28. Treasure Island By: Robert Louis Stevenson Narrated by: Sam Taylor Length: 6 hours and 44 minutes Originally written in the 1800s, this classic story from Robert Louis Stevenson is set in a world of buccaneers and buried treasure. The adventurous novel is a coming-of-age story which set the precedent for the fictionalised world of pirates as we know them today. Most of all, watch out for the infamous Long John Silver. Buy the audiobook for £0.78 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible 29. Disney: 365 Bedtime Stories By: Disney Press Narrated by: Greg Tremblay Length: 14 hours and 35 minutes One for every night of the year, this audio collection of 365 bedtime stories for children should have them drifting off in no time. The stories include all their favourite Disney characters like Toy Story’s Woody as he and his friends go camping plus Frozen’s Elsa, Anna and Olaf having a sleepover. Buy the audiobook for £29.92 from Amazon Free with a 30-day trial of Audible If your kids still can’t get enough of their favourite friends, the new Disney+ streaming service has all the classics available to stream instantly on any device. 30. The Highway Rat By: Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler Narrated by: Imelda Staunton Length: 29 minutes Another gripping story from favourite children’s duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, this tale follows a mischievous, horse-riding rat who rides along the highway stealing food. That is until he encounters a crafty duck. Buy the audiobook for £4.37 Free with a 30-day trial of Audible Ditch your headphones! Take a look at our best smart speaker pick to listen to these classics with your kids.
My Fantasy Bookshelf: Finding Alice’s Isabella Pappas shares the books which influenced her life and career
From The Handmaid's Tale to Americanah, the Finding Alice actor discusses her favourite books.
Isabella Pappas is an Olivier-nominated actor seen on the stage as well as the screen in Paranoid, Home and Almost Never. Now, Pappas joins the stellar Finding Alice cast fronted by Keeley Hawes (Alice) and also featuring Joanna Lumley and Nigel Havers. Pappas plays Charlotte, the daughter of Alice (Hawes) and the soon-to-be late Harry (Jason Merrells), as the pair cope with his loss and the secrets which emerge following Harry’s death. Below, Isabella Pappas shares the books which have inspired her and now earn a spot on her Fantasy Bookshelf. She shares the book she read between scenes backstage, the story she believes can break hearts and rebuild them again, plus the quote which has resonated with her most during lockdown. What was your favourite book growing up? A Series of Unfortunate Events was one of my most prized possessions, I would rampage through the series. I would read at the library when there was a new edition and be the first to check it out. I grew up on a small farm in the middle of a rural town so it was truly an escape for me. I wanted more than anything to be Violet Baudelaire because she invented things all the time and I tried inventing things but mine didn't work. What was the last book you couldn’t put down? The Handmaid's Tale. I read it while performing every night at the Donmar [Warehouse Theatre]. I would read it backstage and try to fit in another chapter before I went on stage. I think it truly scares you into realising a lot of ugly truths about the way the world could go. If you could star in an adaptation as any character, who would it be? Antigone by Sophocles. The pain, the betrayal and the sacrifices are truly mesmerising and it's timeless, I feel like it could be modernised in a really exciting way. Which is the one book you would tell everyone in the world to read? The Giving Tree. It's a children's book and it will break your heart and then slowly piece it back together. It's about humanity, not just being human, but being in the world around us in nature. I think it’s really important, with climate change and all the things that are happening, for a younger generation to be reading because it really makes you appreciate what we've been given. Which quote from a novel have you found most poignant? One which resonates with me especially after COVID and lockdown is, "We thought we had such problems, how were we to know we were happy?" which is Margret Atwood in The Handmaid's Tale. The book is full of good quotes but I think that one is really relevant today. What have you read which has inspired your career in performing? Attempts on Her Life by Martin Crimp is such a beautiful play. The way that the dialogue is crafted just makes me want to tell the story and it's just one of the plays that, as an actor, you really are itching to perform. I think it pushed me definitely towards acting and I think it really renews your passion for storytelling. Is there a character you wish you could be more like in real life? The play Emilia by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm. It's based on the real Emilia Bassano and her life. She was said to have aided Shakespeare in coming up with a lot of the bigger concepts for his play but then she was given no credit. She had to battle not only the men who oppressed her but also other perceptions of her because Shakespeare makes his own judgement in Othello, by writing her into the play. I think it's a really beautiful piece. What is the best reading recommendation you’ve ever been given? The best reading recommendation I've ever been given was Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov. It has such a stigma around it but I decided to sit down and read it without any other judgments following about in my head. I think the reason it had such an impact is because Dolores is such a complex female character and she completely undermines tropes of the time. Which book has made you think about something differently? Purple Hibiscus is such a beautiful, heartbreaking book that I think everyone should read. It made me see the world differently because it was such a learning curve. It made me realise that a book doesn't have to be centred around my culture and my circumstances for me to be able to relate to it. It's just so heartbreaking and overwhelmingly beautiful in its descriptions. It's full of these amazing adjectives that you just eat up every time. What are you excited to read next? Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is an amazing author, she wrote Americanah which I'm really looking forward to reading. Finding Alice airs on Sunday 17th January at 9pm on ITV – check out what else is on with our TV Guide Isabella Pappa’s Fantasy Bookshelf A Series of Unfortunate Events series by Lemony Snicket Buy the books Listen to the audiobook The Handmaid's Tale by Margret Atwood Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Antigone by Sophocles Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein Buy the book Attempts on Her Life by Martin Crimp Buy the book Emilia by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm Buy the book Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Buy the book Listen to the audiobook
My Fantasy Bookshelf: Ben Miller shares the books which influenced his life and career
The Bridgerton actor shares his top reads ahead of the release of his new book and latest Netflix series.
You might know actor, comedian and author Ben Miller as Agent Bough, the long-suffering side-kick to Rowan Atkinson’s Johnny English, as one half of comedy duo Armstrong and Miller (with Alexander Armstrong) or as the original lead detective on Death in Paradise. His latest role is in Bridgerton, the Netflix period drama which has been binge-watched across the nation, and his new book for children, The Day I Fell into a Fairytale, recently hit the shelves. Below, Miller discusses the titles which have influenced his own writing and comedic career, selecting the books he’d line up on his Fantasy Bookshelf. Miller shares the childhood book he reads to his own children, his dream role as an unhelpful caterpillar and explains why he’s more like Huckleberry Finn (with ill-fitting swimming shorts) than master detective Sherlock Holmes. Which books inspired your career in comedy acting? I read a lot of Dickens growing up, and it's had a huge influence on me. The idea that names alone can be funny: that language and character and situation can have you in stitches, before you even add so much as a gag. I love the later, socially-conscious novels, but for pure fun you can’t do much better than The Pickwick Papers. If you could star as a character from any book, which would it be? My daughter Lana’s favourite book is Alice in Wonderland, so I’d like to be in that, please. The caterpillar would be my first choice. Sitting on a mushroom, smoking a hookah, and being of no help to Alice whatsoever is safely ‘in my wheelhouse,’ as they say in Hollywood. Which character do you see yourself in? Huckleberry Finn. In real life I’m a bit of a daydreamer, and Huck was the character I really identified with in The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. When Huck ran away and had an adventure of his own in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn I felt like it was happening to me. But then that’s the brilliance of Mark Twain; it’s all so natural it doesn’t feel like writing at all. Which character do you wish you could be more like? Sherlock Holmes. Who doesn’t? To have that tidy a “brain-attic” that you can instantly access any piece of knowledge. Mine is more like my bedroom floor: piled high with unfinished stories, half-remembered facts and badly-fitting swimming shorts I bought online and forgot to send back. What is your favourite quote? It's from The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupery; "And now here is my secret, a very simple secret: It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the naked eye." There are children's books that you must keep reading as an adult and The Little Prince is one of them. What was your favourite book in childhood? It would have to be King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table by Roger Lancelyn Green. It weaves all the magical stories of Arthurian legend into one glorious arc: the sword in the stone, Lancelot and Guinevere, and Gawain and the Green Knight. My father used to read it to me at bedtime, right up until I was a teenager, and I’ve kept the torch burning by reading it to my kids too. Your new book, The Day I Fell into a Fairytale is now out in hardback. Which stories inspired your own writing? Every time I sit down to write a new children’s book, I get my eye in with a bit of AA Milne. Every soft toy living in the Hundred Acre Wood is effortlessly drawn: even the punctuation is funny. The problem is the writing is so nailed down there’s nothing to steal. But then, who cares? At least I get to read a bit of Winnie-The-Pooh. Is there a piece of reading which has had an impact on your life? My friend Jez Butterworth once gave me a change of address card by a young man called Alexander Armstrong. It was a sort of shaggy dog-poem, where the last line sounded out his address. That didn’t turn out too badly. What was the last book you read and would you read it again? I just finished Serpentine by Philip Pullman, and yes, I would definitely read it again. It’s quite short, beautifully illustrated, and deliciously atmospheric. We get a glimpse of Lyra in between His Dark Materials and The Book of Dust, as she works a few issues through with Pantalaimon, her daemon. As you do. It made me think I’m not nearly thoughtful enough as a writer, but then just as we can’t all be AA Milne, we can’t all be Phillip Pullman either. What’s next on your reading list? Next on my list is The White Ship by Charles Spencer. In fact I’ve got it sitting next to me as I write. It’s the true story of an extraordinary shipwreck that took place off the coast of Normandy in 1120, when Henry I, son of William the Conqueror, lost his only legitimate son, his treasure, and two hundred of his court. As a direct result, England plunged into anarchy. Can’t wait. Ben Miller’s book for children of all ages, The Day I Fell into a Fairytale, is out now in hardback. New period drama Bridgerton is streaming now on Netflix. Buy Ben Miller's Fantasy Bookshelf The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupery (translated by Irene Testot-Ferry) Buy the book Listen to the audiobook King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table by Roger Lancelyn Green Buy the book Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Serpentine by Philip Pullman Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The White Ship: Conquest, Anarchy and the Wrecking of Henry I’s Dream by Charles Spencer Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Day I Fell into a Fairytale by Ben Miller Buy the book Listen to the audiobook
Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders launch original podcast series on Audible
French & Saunders: Titting About will see the beloved double act discuss assorted topics in their usual irreverent style.
Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders are reuniting to host a brand new original podcast series on Audible. French & Saunders: Titting About will see the beloved double act discuss assorted topics in their typically irreverent style, including useful tips on airport shopping and naming their top-three vegetables According to Audible, the pair "will leave no stone unturned in their thorough quest to entertain, humour and enlighten", with the series set to consist of six episodes. The themes of each episode include: Passions and Hobbies, Holidays, School, The Seven Deadly Sins, Food and a final episode titled If We Were Alive Now which sees the pair look back at their careers. French said of the podcast, “Titting About with Fatty is the best fun I’ve had without my incontinence pants on. Which, on reflection, was a mistake. Some soft furnishings were damaged in the making of this series.” And Saunders added, “I can’t imagine anything I’d rather be doing than titting about with Dawn. We both have tits, after all”. The pair have appeared in numerous shows together since they first got to know each other at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and went onto star in their own award-winning BBC sketch show, which ran for six series between 1987 and 2004. Individually, they have also both had tremendous success, with French starring on The Vicar of Dibley and Saunders in Absolutely Fabulous. French and Saunders are the latest big names from TV comedy to make podcasts for Audible, with Steve Coogan recently starring as his iconic character Alan Partridge for From the Oasthouse and the cast of hit sitcom People Just Do Nothing creating The Kurupt FM Podkast. French & Saunders: Titting About will be available to download exclusively at Audible from 6th October 2020. Looking for something to watch? Check out our TV Guide.
My Fantasy Bookshelf: Paloma Faith shares the books which influenced her life and career
The singer and actor reveals the titles most significant to her.
Paloma Faith is a singer, songwriter, actor and presenter, recently taking on an acting role in the Batman prequel series Pennyworth. Here, Faith explores the best loved books of her life, which she would line up on her Fantasy Bookshelf. The performer discusses the novel which has changed the way she thinks, shares the villain she’d love to voice most and reveals the book she has a whole pile of in her living room. Which book reminds you of your childhood? Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl. I remember loving the Little Red Riding one in particular because I thought it was so funny when it said she pulled the pistol from her knickers. I would ask my dad to read that line over and over again. What book do you think every child should read growing up? The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and Horse by Charlie Mackesy. I bought six copies and now any kid who has a birthday, I just give it to them because I've got a pile of them in my living room. That's what all kids, to save the world, need to read because it's about kindness. The first page is like, “What's the bravest thing you could do?” and then it says, “Ask for help.” If you want to bring up a solid kid, read them that every night. If you could narrate the voice of any character in an audiobook, who would you choose? I would love to be Cruella de Ville in 101 Dalmatians. Is there a book you've read that has changed your perspective of the world? I think the biggest life changing book that I ever read, that really shifted the way that I think and my perspective on life, was Immortality by Milan Kundera. It's all about existence. I remember reading that and then it being a pivotal point in my coming of age. I was about 20 and I think I became more adult after reading it. What was the most recent book you read and what did you think of it? I just read Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin. I loved it. I've never read such a beautiful description of love before. I found that really moving. If I was still courting, I'd give it to someone. Is there a character you've played before that you can see aspects of yourself in? I was always cast as a sort of publicly perceived version of myself. A giggly, bit jokey and slightly eccentric character. And then with Bet Sykes, [who Faith plays in the DC series, Pennyworth] I feel like I've had to delve into some darker corners of my past experiences to find that character. I think that's something that's particularly changing in writing for women. For years most female roles were very one dimensional and a little bit boring. And I still today feel a bit jealous of male characters, not in this job, but I often read a script and I would prefer to play one of the men because I feel like it speaks to me more. Not because I'm manly per se, but because those characters often have more layers. If you could star in an adaptation of any book brought to screen, which would you choose? I'm a big fan of Miranda July and I'd love to play the female lead in The First Bad Man, which is a quite hilarious character. It’s about this woman who is single, living alone and she believes that she has a spiritual connection with a baby. I just love her writing. It's so awkward and uncomfortable and I thrive in that. It's everything I want, it’s comedy, existentialism, fallibility, all very uncomfortable. I think that's the perfect role for me. Which book recommendation are you most thankful for? My best recommendation ever is The Master and the Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov, a very good book. If you could give everyone in the world one book to read, what would it be? The Other Hand by Chris Cleave. It's a book about a family who go on holiday and they meet somebody and they frivolously say, if you come to England, then you should call us. Then this person comes to England seeking asylum. It's a really brilliant, well observed, eye opening story about the disparity between the privilege of the Western world and what makes somebody become a refugee or an immigrant. It’s probably one of five books that I've really poured with tears reading. What’s top of your to-read list? Next on my list is Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams. It's meant to be absolutely amazing. Pennyworth: The Complete First Season is now available on Blu-ray and DVD – check out what else is on with our TV Guide Read Paloma Faith’s Fantasy Bookshelf Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and Horse by Charlie Mackesy Buy the book The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Immortality by Milan Kundera Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin Buy the book The First Bad Man by Miranda July Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Master and The Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Other Hand by Chris Cleave Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams Buy the book Listen to the audiobook
My Fantasy Bookshelf: Raphael Rowe shares the books which influenced his life and career
The investigative journalist discusses his most influential reads.
Raphael Rowe is an investigative broadcast journalist and currently hosts Netflix’s Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons, having been wrongfully imprisoned himself for 12 years. Below, Rowe opens up about the books which have impacted his perspectives and career path, and now earn a spot on his Fantasy Bookshelf. The journalist shares the book which kept him laughing in darker times, the quote which inspires him most and why he wishes he wrote the dictionary. As a child, which character from a book would you were say you were most like? Tarzan, because he was free but engulfed by both man and beast. If you could claim to be the author of any book, which would you choose? The Dictionary. Understanding words creates powerful influence. What is the best reading recommendation you’ve ever been given? The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. It was one of the first books recommended to me during my time in prison and it took me from a mentally dark place to laughter and distraction. Which book has inspired your career path? Charged by Emily Bazelon was a powerful reminder of the influence of journalism and how the American judicial system is unjust. Knowing the details can help propel your argument for change. In your work you shine a light on experiences many people wouldn’t otherwise be aware of, for instance in prisons. Are there any types of stories you wish there were more books about? I am inspired by the stories of people I have met during my work. Ordinary people's lives and the reasons they have done the things they have done would inspire others. I would like to see more of these kinds of books. Which author’s audiobook are you looking forward to listening to? This will be William Shakespeare, I’ve always wanted to know more about his work. What’s the best line from a book which has changed how you think? I was recently reading Andy Harrington's Passion into Profit. The line I liked that resonated with me was, “have you ever struggled for something for so long and finally succeeded and reached the summit? Only for you to realize it’s not the summit, and that there’s a whole new mountain to climb?” What was the last book you read and would you read it again? The Body by Bill Bryson is the last book I read. I wouldn’t read it again as I prefer to keep on discovering and now I know what is in it, I’d feel cheated. If you could tell everyone in the world to read just one book, which would you choose? I would recommend Notorious, my own autobiography, but that won’t be released until later this year. So, it would have to be The Communist Manifesto, not that I’ve ever been a communist, it’s just that from what I’ve read it’s a profound insight. What’s next on your reading list? Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass. I enjoy nonfiction more than fiction and this is a book that will help my understanding of a certain history I’m keen to learn more about. Series 4 of Inside the World's Toughest Prisons, hosted by Raphael Rowe, is available on Netflix now – check out our lists of the best TV shows on Netflix and the best movies on Netflix, or see what else is on with our TV Guide Read Raphael Rowe’s Fantasy Bookshelf Tarzan of the Apes by Edgar Rice Burroughs Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Oxford English Dictionary by Oxford Languages Buy the book The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Charged: The New Movement to Transform American Prosecution and End Mass Incarceration by Emily Bazelon Buy the book William Shakespeare: Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies by Peter Saccio Listen to the audiobook Passion into Profit: How to Make Big Money From Who You Are and What You Know by Andy Harrington Buy the book The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass Buy the book Listen to the audiobook
My Fantasy Bookshelf: Ben Aldridge shares the books which influenced his life and career
The Fleabag and Our Girl actor opens up about his favourite reads.
Ben Aldridge is an actor known for his roles in BBC One’s army series Our Girl and Phoebe-Waller Bridge’s Fleabag. He now stars in the Batman prequel Pennyworth, playing Thomas Wayne, the man who will one day become Bruce Wayne’s father. Below, the actor discusses the much loved books he’d choose to line up on his Fantasy Bookshelf. Aldridge shares the title he can’t wait to read next, the character he’d most like to play on screen and explains how he tried to get out of reading at school. What's the best reading recommendation you've ever been given? A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara. That was recommended to me and it's one of my favourite books. Is there a book which stands out in your memory from your childhood? I didn't really read when I was younger, I pretended to read all the time. We had to read for 10 minutes every day at school and I used to act as if I was reading really convincingly. I remember my mum reading a book called The Very Worried Sparrow a lot and that was about a sparrow that was basically scared to do everything. I think it's because she had to give me a little bit of an extra push to do things. In The Very Worried Sparrow he eventually plucks up the courage to fly. If you could tell everyone in the world to read just one book, which would you choose? The Examined Life by Stephen Grosz. He's a therapist and each chapter is a client of his. It was the first time I'd really read about the benefits and intricacies of therapy. It's really satisfying to read because each chapter opens with the client and their issue. Then by the end of the chapter [Grosz] has cracked the problem and the person's life has improved. It’s an interesting insight into that world inside a therapist's room. If you could narrate the voice of any character in an audiobook, who would it be? I wanted to do the audiobook for Lie with Me by Philippe Besson but it was already taken. It’s this queer love story between two teenage boys in France. One of them is an adult, reflecting back and finding out about where the other man is now because they never managed to make their love work. It’s just a really beautiful and painful book. Is there anything you’ve read which has taught you something? I've just read a book called How We Fight for Our Lives by Saeed Jones, which is a memoir. It’s him detailing his life growing up in America as a black, queer man and it opened up my perspective on those things. It's also just a brilliant book and I'd recommend it to anyone. He's a really talented writer. Is there a character that you can see yourself in or becoming like? Anyone you play, even though a character might be transformative, it has to exist within you somewhere. Acting is like turning the volume up and down on parts of you. Your only resource to play that character is yourself or your imagination, so it's all there already. If you could star in an adaptation as any character next, who would it be? It would be A Little Life again. I would love to play either Jude or Willem. What have you been reading during lockdown? I read a book called Swimming in the Dark by Tomasz Jedrowski. It’s his debut novel and I loved it, I couldn't get enough of it. I got a little bit obsessed. It's a queer love story in communist Poland, which is a country and era that I didn't know very much about, and it's this really beautiful, forbidden love story between two men. What’s next on your reading list? A friend of mine just gave me a book called Staring at the Sun by Irvin D. Yalom. It sounds really intense. It's about reckoning death and the fact that we all know that's where we're headed and how much it affects our living lives. Pennyworth: The Complete First Season is now available on Blu-ray and DVD Read Ben Aldridge’s Fantasy Bookshelf A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara Buy the book Listen to the audiobook The Very Worried Sparrow by Meryl Doney Buy the book The Examined Life: How We Lose and Find Ourselves by Stephen Grosz Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Lie with Me by Philippe Besson Buy the book Listen to the audiobook How We Fight for Our Lives: A Memoir by Saeed Jones Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Staring at The Sun: Overcoming the Dread of Death by Irvin D. Yalom Buy the book Listen to the audiobook Swimming in The Dark by Tomasz Jedrowski Buy the book Listen to the audiobook If you’re looking for more inspiration, we’ve also got lists of the best audiobooks on Audible and the best audiobooks for kids.
Vanessa Redgrave reprises her role in The Year of Magical Thinking for Audible
Joan Didion’s Pulitzer Prize-nominated memoir comes to Audible
Vanessa Redgrave CBE has reprised her Tony nominated solo performance of Joan Didion’s moving memoir for audiobook platform Audible. The Year of Magical Thinking debuts in August. The memoir, which was originally published in 2005, narrates the year following Didion's husband's death. The powerful account explores her coming to terms with the loss of her life partner, navigating her grief and new identity as a widow. Ranked number two in the Guardian's list of the best nonfiction books of all time, The Year of Magical Thinking was adapted for Broadway in 2007 and later moved to the National Theatre in London. Vannessa Redgrave, the star of the Broadway adaption and new audiobook, is no stranger to the stage and screen. Rising to prominence in 1961 with the Royal Shakespeare Company, Redgrave is a six-time Oscar nominee and has racked up an impressive 35 productions on Broadway and in London's West End. The Year of Magical Thinking will be in good company on Audible. Some of the platform's other theatre productions include True West performed by Kit Harington and Johnny Flynn; Girls and Boys performed by Carey Mulligan andRadio performed by Adam Gillen, among others. To listen to The Year of Magical Thinking on Audible costs £5.99, or 1 credit for Audible members. New to Audible? You're in luck - there are some good offers for new listeners to take advantage of. You can currently sign up to Audible for a 30-day free trial and you'll receive one free audiobook download when you register. Alternatively, you can sign up for two months of Audible for just 99p. You can also read our guide to how Audible works and our suggestions for the best audiobooks to get stuck into.