20 Audiobooks Narrated By Celebrities

There’s something truly special about sinking into a good story, isn’t there? Whether it’s a classic novel, a thrilling mystery, or a heartfelt memoir, the power of narrative is undeniable. And in our increasingly busy lives, audiobooks have become a cherished way to experience these stories. The beauty of audiobooks lies not only in the words themselves but also in the voice that brings them to life. While many skilled voice actors excel in this field, there’s an undeniable thrill in listening to your favorite stories as told by your favorite celebrities. Imagine settling in for a long drive or a relaxing evening, only to hear the familiar and beloved voice of an Academy Award winner or a Tony Award winning actor weaving the tale. Today, I’m thrilled to share a round-up of some truly exceptional audiobooks narrated by celebrities, a collection that showcases just how impactful a well-chosen narrator can be.

20 Audiobooks Narrated By Celebrities

Before diving into the list, let's touch upon the art of narration. I'm going to talk about how narration can affect the storytelling/listening experience, how this can help your readers appreciate the audiobooks you are going to share, and why it matters. A great audiobook narrator doesn't just read words; they embody the characters, convey emotions, and set the tone, transforming a written story into a fully immersive experience. When a celebrity lends their voice to an audiobook, they bring their unique charisma and interpretive skills, often adding layers of depth and nuance that might otherwise be missed. This can help readers appreciate the audiobooks that I am about to share.

How Does Narration Affect A Story In Audiobooks?

Narration is the soul of an audiobook. It shapes the listener’s perception and emotional connection to the story. A skilled narrator can:

• Bring characters to life: By using distinct voices, accents, and tones, they make characters feel real and relatable.

• Enhance emotional impact: They can convey subtle emotions through pacing, inflection, and emphasis, deepening the listener’s understanding of the story’s themes.

• Set the atmosphere: Their vocal delivery can create a sense of suspense, humor, or melancholy, drawing the listener into the world of the story.

• Clarify complex narratives: They can guide the listener through intricate plots and dense prose, making the story more accessible and engaging.

• Add a personal touch: Celebrity narrators, in particular, often bring their own unique interpretations and perspectives to the material, adding a layer of personal connection.

The right narrator can elevate a good book to a truly unforgettable experience. As mentioned in this post about the best audiobook narrators, the perfect narrator can elevate the listening experience.

I want to note that I do not get paid to do these posts, I just love authors and the book industry. However, they do take time and energy to create. If you want to donate a few dollars to my coffee fund, which keeps this blog going, you can do so here: https://venmo.com/AshleyHasty or here: http://paypal.me/hastybooklist.

What Are The Best Audiobooks Narrated By Celebrities?

Now, let's explore some outstanding audiobooks that showcase the magic of celebrity narration.

Heartburn by Nora Ephron, narrated by Meryl Streep

There’s no better way to experience Nora Ephron’s witty and insightful writing than through the voice of Meryl Streep. Streep, an Academy Award-winning actress, brings warmth and nuance to Ephron’s semi-autobiographical novel, making it a must-listen for fans of smart, sharp storytelling.

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah, narrated by the author

Trevor Noah’s memoir about growing up in apartheid South Africa is both humorous and heartbreaking. As the New York Times bestselling comedian narrates his own story, listeners get an authentic and deeply personal account of his life, filled with his signature humor and wit.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, narrated by Rosamund Pike

Fans of Jane Austen will adore this rendition of Pride and Prejudice by Rosamund Pike, an actress known for her poised and elegant performances. Pike’s narration perfectly captures the wit and charm of Austen’s prose, making it a delightful listen for classic literature lovers.

Scar Tissue by Anthony Kiedis, narrated by the author

Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis takes listeners on a wild journey through his life, narrating his memoir with raw honesty. His unique voice and perspective make this an unforgettable listening experience, especially for music fans.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett, narrated by Tom Hanks

Few actors have a voice as recognizable and comforting as Tom Hanks. In this National Book Award-nominated novel, Hanks brings warmth and depth to Ann Patchett’s emotionally rich story, making it a standout in literary fiction audiobooks.

A Life in Parts by Bryan Cranston, narrated by the author

Best known for his role as Walter White in Breaking Bad, Bryan Cranston proves to be just as compelling a narrator as he is an actor. His memoir is filled with fascinating insights into his career, and his narration adds a personal touch that makes this audiobook even more engaging.

Me by Elton John, narrated by Taron Egerton

While Elton John himself narrates the introduction of his memoir, most of the book is performed by Taron Egerton, the actor who portrayed him in Rocketman. Egerton’s performance is energetic and engaging, perfectly capturing the essence of the legendary musician’s life story.

Legal Immigrant by Alan Cumming, narrated by the author

Alan Cumming, a Tony Award-winning actor, brings his signature charm and wit to this moving and insightful audiobook. His storytelling ability makes this memoir about his experiences as an immigrant and performer a must-listen.

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey, narrated by the author

McConaughey’s narration of his own memoir is packed with energy, humor, and his signature “alright, alright, alright.” His performance makes this audiobook an experience rather than just a reading.

The Boys by Ron and Clint Howard, narrated by the authors

This memoir by the Howard brothers about growing up in Hollywood is both nostalgic and heartwarming. Their firsthand storytelling makes the listener feel like part of their journey.

Just As I Am by Cicely Tyson, narrated by the author and Viola Davis

This powerful memoir is beautifully narrated by Cicely Tyson and Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis, making it a must-listen for fans of both women.

Brave by Rose McGowan, narrated by the author

McGowan’s passionate delivery adds raw emotion to this powerful memoir about her life and experiences in Hollywood.

A Promised Land by Barack Obama, narrated by the author

Obama’s narration of his presidential memoir is both engaging and insightful, making it a compelling listen.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum, narrated by Anne Hathaway

Hathaway brings enthusiasm and charm to her performance, making this classic children’s tale a delightful experience.

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline, narrated by Wil Wheaton

Wil Wheaton brings his geek-culture expertise to Ernest Cline’s futuristic adventure, making Ready Player One a thrilling and immersive experience. Wheaton’s narration adds excitement and nostalgia, making it a must-listen for sci-fi and pop culture fans.

Go Set A Watchman by Harper Lee, narrated by Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon brings her Southern charm and emotional depth to this audiobook, making Harper Lee’s controversial follow-up to To Kill a Mockingbird an engaging listen.

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, narrated by Rachel McAdams

Rachel McAdams brings warmth and wonder to this classic children’s novel, making Anne Shirley’s adventures in Avonlea even more enchanting.

The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, narrated by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s dynamic narration adds vibrancy to this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, bringing Oscar’s world to life in an unforgettable way.

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood, narrated by Claire Danes

Claire Danes delivers a haunting and compelling performance of this dystopian classic, making Atwood’s world feel chillingly real.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, narrated by Thandiwe Newton

Thandiwe Newton’s elegant and nuanced narration breathes fresh life into this literary classic, making it a must-listen for fans of Gothic romance.

Audiobooks offer a rich and immersive experience, especially when narrated by celebrities who bring their own unique talents to the storytelling process. If you love audiobooks read by talented voices, check out my list of the best audiobook narrators to discover even more incredible performances.

Whether you're a fan of Civil War dramas, memoirs by bestselling authors, or performances by award-winning actors, this list has something for everyone. So plug in your headphones and let these star-studded audiobooks transport you into their world!