... Read moreHey everyone! Since you loved my quick roundup of audiobooks on Libby, I wanted to dive a bit deeper into why these made my list and give you some extra tips for finding your next listen. The search for the ‘best audiobooks on Libby’ can be overwhelming, so here’s my take on some I’ve finished recently:
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy (10/10)
This memoir was an absolute knockout! As the cover suggests, hearing Jennette McCurdy read her own story added such a profound layer of intimacy and raw emotion. It's incredibly brave, heartbreaking, and surprisingly funny. I couldn't stop listening – truly a 10/10 for its impact, the author's powerful narration, and its ability to completely draw you in. If you're looking for an honest, unfiltered look at a difficult childhood and finding your voice, this is an absolute must-listen.
The Teacher by Freida McFadden (9/10)
Freida McFadden absolutely masters the psychological thriller, and 'The Teacher' is no exception. The cover, featuring a red apple with a knife stuck in it, perfectly sets the tone for this twisty, suspenseful story. It kept me guessing until the very end, and the narrators did an excellent job at building the tension and delivering the shocking revelations. Definitely a high recommendation if you love a good 'what just happened?!' moment and a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The Weight of Blood by Tiffany D. Jackson (8/10)
Tiffany D. Jackson is a master of YA thrillers, and 'The Weight of Blood' was another compelling listen. The dark cover art really captures the eerie atmosphere of this story. It’s a powerful reimagining of Carrie, but with a crucial critique of racial injustice woven throughout. The story is intense and thought-provoking, making it a very important listen, though at times I felt the pacing was a little drawn out, which is why it’s an 8/10 for me. Still, a powerful and important listen that sticks with you.
Monday’s Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson (6/10)
Another one by Tiffany D. Jackson, 'Monday’s Not Coming' tackles a really important and difficult subject – the disappearance of Black girls who are often overlooked. The story is poignant, and the narrator did a great job conveying the protagonist's desperation and confusion. While the themes are crucial and the story sheds light on systemic issues, for me, the pacing was a bit slow in parts, making it a 6/10. It’s a story that stays with you and highlights vital conversations, but it wasn't as gripping as some of her other works purely from an audiobook experience perspective.
Tips for Finding More Audiobooks on Libby:
Beyond my specific recommendations, here are a few things I do to find amazing audiobooks and make the most of my Libby app experience:
Explore Genres: Don't just stick to what you know! Libby has tons of categories, from romance and fantasy to history and memoirs. I often browse the 'New Arrivals' or 'Popular' sections to see what's trending.
Check Narrator Reviews: A good narrator can truly make or break an audiobook. Before borrowing, I sometimes check if the narrator has good reviews or listen to a sample, especially for non-fiction or memoirs where their voice and delivery are key.
Utilize the Wishlist/Holds Feature: If a book isn't immediately available, put it on hold! It's so satisfying when it finally comes in. And use the 'Wishlist' to keep track of all the books you want to listen to later. It's a great way to build your queue.
Adjust Playback Speed: One of my favorite features! I often listen at 1.25x or 1.5x speed. It helps me get through more books and keeps me engaged, especially during slower parts.
Listen to Samples: Most audiobooks offer a short sample. It's a great way to see if you like the narrator's voice, the book's pacing, and the overall vibe before committing to borrowing it.
Happy listening, bookworms! Hope these deeper dives and tips help you make the most of your Libby experience. What are some of your favorite audiobooks on Libby?