A year ago this week, I published my first book, titled What Does Your Fortune Cookie Say? The response to the book has been extremely rewarding. People have appreciated the book enough to write great reviews and gift the book to others. And so far, no school districts, governments, or Tipper Gores have banned or burned the book.
But over the past year, there is one question I have been asked over and over, again. (Like Tim McGraw and Nelly.)
“When is the audiobook version of your book coming out?”
I would love to have an audio version of the book. I listen to audiobooks all the time. They are great to listen to when I am driving. Because I have found that when I read regular books while driving bad things tend to happen.
However, I wrote this book in my writing style, which also mirrors my speaking style. My ‘voice’ contains regular, random asides and uncited pop culture references. Because I wanna know who really gets my jokes. (And I wanna know, have you ever seen the rain?)
Because I wrote the book in my voice, readers have insisted that I also record the audiobook. Which means that I have to find the time to read and record the audio version.
Recording the audiobook entails reading for about an hour each morning, day after day, until I finish the 290-page book. I would read first thing in the morning to ensure a consistent sound to my voice. And I expect I can only read for about an hour before fatigue would make me sound less enthusiastic than listeners deserve.
I am considering making the recording an End-of-2022 Project. But before I wake up and read my book to myself and my recording device for a couple weeks I have 2 questions for you.
1. Do you listen to audiobooks?
2. If so, where and when do you listen to them?
Your Opportunity:
Please leave your response below, text me at 614-256-2850 or email me at adam@theweaponry.com. If you provide your feedback, and I do record the audio version, I’ll include you in my acknowledgments section of the book. Heck, you can even game the system and share this with all your friends and family. Whoever responds will get included. (If no one responds and I record the book anyway, I will dedicate the book to crickets. And the sound of silence.)
Key Takeaway
It’s easy to make the mistake of creating products, services, or entire businesses with no natural audience. Before you jump into creating something new, do a little market research to see if there is an audience interested in what you are about to create. That way you ensure you invest your time, energy, and money into projects expected to offer good returns.
*If you know someone who would like to be mentioned in an audiobook, please share this with them.
+If you still need an inexpensive Christmas gift written to help readers learn a little, laugh a little and lift a little, you can find What Does Your Fortune Cookie Say? here.
I don’t need to be included in the acknowledgements, but yes, I often listen to audiobooks. When still teaching, I listened on my commute, although sometimes I’d listen to music to pump me up for the day or wind me down on the way home. Other times, I would make phone calls to my grown children or elderly relatives.my husband and I also listen to audio books on driving vacations, etc.
I also often listen to audiobooks when power walking in the neighborhood, mowing, and gardening.
So exciting for you to record your book in your own voice to reach another audience.
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This is great feedback Heidi! Now you have to be mentioned!
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Love audio books! I listen in the car, and while I’m cooking, cleaning and doing laundry.
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I love audiobooks because regardless of how good or entertaining your book is, reading a physical book makes me nappy and so it can take me forever to finish. I listen to audio books all the time when I drive, walk, or when working around the house.
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You are an equal opportunity listener Kristi!!! Thanks for the feedback!
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Depends on the book. Sometimes in the car, other motivational type books I listen to while working or even at the gym get going and push myself on that extra rep!
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I love that Ryan! Good distinction!
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Audio books are my goto when traveling, cleaning, or relaxing. However, I only finish them when the reader is really good! This one is worth a finish!
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Now I’m feeling the pressure Cuz!!!
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Yes! How can a person drive and NOT listen to a book!
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Exactly!
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Adam..this is fantastic!! When I read your book, I think I actually HEARD your voice! Weird, 😂 yes..I love audio books! I like listening while I’m cooking!!
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I hear that a lot! Thanks for the feedback! I’m hearing other people say they listen while cooking.
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Yes….cooking, walking, or editing photos.
Love it, Adam!
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Thanks for the feedback Camela!
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I mainly listen while driving long distances, walking through airports and on airline travel. Surprisingly, I have found it comes in very handy while watching my kids play sports. It helps tune out the oft disheartening parent “sideline coaches” [from both sides] and when other parents see my earbuds in, they [usually] don’t interrupt – allowing me some temporary solitude to experience the awesome joy of watching my kiddo run around out there!
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Nice Mike! The sports viewing-reading is a new example. I’m surprised how many people listen on planes.
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