Distinctive Voices: Five Favorite Audiobook Narrators

Recommended by Jenna, a patron of the Canton Public Library.
Check our other Fave Five lists, too!
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
by J.K. Rowling, read by Jim Dale
Jim Dale has won Grammy and Audie Awards for his narration of the Harry Potter books, but with "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix," he gained a spot in the Guinness Book of Records. He created 134 character voices for the book, ensuring that even minor characters had their own, distinctive voice. The Amazing Mrs. Pollifax
by Dorothy Gilman, read by Barbara Rosenblat
After checking out Barbara Rosenblat's narration of "The Amazing Mrs. Pollifax," I wasted no time in checking out every Mrs. Pollifax audiobook that the Canton Public Library owned. When I finished with that, I worked my way through the Plymouth District Library's collection. Gilman's Mrs. Pollifax series is always wonderful, but Rosenblat's narration adds a little extra delight. The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger
by Stephen King, read by Frank Muller
Best known for his narration of the Stephen King "Dark Tower" series, Frank Muller has recorded hundreds of audiobooks, from classical literature to popular novels. For those patrons who don't enjoy Stephen King, I recommend Muller's recording of Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations." Sadly, Muller was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident in 2001, and although he has greatly recovered, he is still unable to continue his career. Anne of Green Gables
by L. M. Montgomery, read by Barbara Caruso
The beloved children's book comes alive, read by Barbara Caruso. Caruso captures the personality of each character perfectly. When I think of Anne Shirley and Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert, it's always Caruso's voice I hear in my head. Bunnicula: A Rabbit Tale of Mystery
by Deborah and James Howe, read by Victor Garber
Those who are accustomed to thinking of Victor Garber as Jesus in "Godspell," Daddy Warbucks in the TV movie "Annie," or as Jack Bristow on the TV series "Alias," may be surprised to see that he's recorded audiobooks of the "Bunnicula" series of childen's books. Garber gives voice to Harold the dog and Chester the cat as they investigate the mysterious night time wanderings of Bunnicula. These books are short, funny, and a revelation to fans of Garber's work.
Aug 06, 2008