When it comes to audiobooks, the relationship between author and narrator is a crucial one. The narrator’s voice can transform a story, imbuing it with new layers of meaning and depth. I pay close attention to narrators, considering factors like whether they’re using their own voices or adopting accents and dialects that match the characters’ cultural backgrounds. This kind of thoughtful consideration is essential in today’s publishing landscape, where representation matters.
In an industry still dominated by straight white cisgender males, it’s vital to celebrate and honor diverse narrators. This list highlights some of the most talented Black women audiobook narrators out there, bringing unique perspectives and inflections to their work. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, historical fiction, memoir, or poetry, these audiobooks offer something special. They’re just the tip of the iceberg – there are countless more hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
YA Fiction
Escaping Exodus by Nicky Drayden, read by Cherise Boothe and Adenrele Ojo
In this extraordinary sci-fi novel, two exceptional narrative voices elevate the story even further. Set in a world where humans inhabit giant space creatures that serve as vessels for transportation, protection, and sustenance, the tale centers around two young women from diverse backgrounds as they navigate the intricate social hierarchy of their space beast-turned-spacecraft.
With each narrator masterfully capturing the essence of the protagonists and a range of memorable supporting characters, this unique narrative unfolds with depth and complexity.
On the Come Up by Angie Thomas, read by Bahni Turpin
In the world of hip-hop, there’s one rule that stands out – books written to be read aloud are those with a passion for the genre. For Bri, her ultimate goal is to become a renowned rapper just like her father. But this path is riddled with challenges, especially when you’re a Black teenage girl trying to make it in a world that can often be hostile. Bahni Turpin shines bright in this powerful novel, infusing every word with the energy and emotion of rap music.
Her performance is nothing short of unforgettable, bringing to life a story that will linger long after the final page has been turned.
The Stars and the Blackness Between Them by Junauda Petrus, read by Junauda Petrus, Bahni Turpin, and JD Jackson
This tender love story unfolds through heartfelt, authentic, and emotional storytelling, imbuing the narrative with profound depth. The protagonist’s life takes a significant turn when her mother discovers her in an intimate moment with another girl, prompting Audre to leave Trinidad for Minneapolis, where she will live with her father. It is here that she encounters Mabel, with whom she forms an instantaneous connection.
This enchanting novel is a celebration of black culture and the power of female friendship, brought to life by Turpin and Petrus’s masterful characterization. As I delved into their stories, I found myself utterly captivated, my breath suspended in anticipation.
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo, read by Elizabeth Acevedo
Xiomara’s story is elevated to new heights when brought to life through audiobooks, with Acevedo’s narration being the perfect match for this novel-in-verse. As the author of Xiomara, she imbues the words with a sense of authenticity and passion that resonates deeply. The protagonist, a Dominican American teenager struggling with the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and social isolation, finds solace in slam poetry as a means of self-discovery.
Through Acevedo’s rich and emotive voice, Xiomara’s verses take on a life of their own, radiating an undeniable power that reverberates within.
The Diviners by Libba Bray, read by January LaVoy
In this audiobook, the sheer breadth of voices that LaVoy skillfully inhabits is nothing short of astonishing. The story unfolds in a mesmerizing 1920s New York City, where the veil between reality and the paranormal is thin. As Evie O’Neill, a newcomer from Ohio, grapples with her own supernatural abilities, she forges unexpected bonds with a diverse group of teenagers.
With effortless ease, LaVoy navigates an impressive array of narrations, effortlessly capturing the distinct personalities, accents, and perspectives of each character.
Adult Fiction
The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls by Anissa Gray, read by January LaVoy, Adenrele Ojo, Bahni Turpin, and Dominic Hoffman
In a masterful display of storytelling, four gifted narrators bring to life the intricate world of three sisters and their families. The eldest sister’s unexpected arrest sends shockwaves through her family, forcing her two younger siblings to navigate the chaos together as they take on the responsibility of caring for her teenage daughters.
As the narrative seamlessly shifts between perspectives, the distinct voices of each narrator transport readers directly into the heart of each character, creating an immersive experience that is both captivating and emotionally resonant.
Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams, read by Shvorne Marks
In this unflinching portrayal of twentysomething life, Queenie’s journey is a raw, often humorous, and deeply relatable exploration of uncertainty. As a 25-year-old Jamaican British woman living in London, she grapples with the complexities of her own identity, making mistakes about love and relationships along the way, and struggling to navigate the relentless barrage of racial microaggressions that punctuate her daily life.
With remarkable precision, Marks brings Queenie’s youthful turmoil and underlying trauma vividly to life through the nuances of British and Jamaican accents, masterfully conveying the intensity of her emotional struggles.
Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson, read by Jacqueline Woodson, Bahni Turpin, Shayna Small, Quincy Tyler Bernstine, and Peter Francis James
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston, read by Ruby Dee
Hurston’s timeless masterpiece is characterized by a plethora of remarkable features, with its prose standing out as a shining example. The novel’s written word is a masterclass in capturing the essence of its setting, characters and cultural context. Ruby Dee’s iconic performance brings Hurston’s words to life with an immersive and expansive quality that transcends mere narration, instead enveloping the listener in a sensory experience akin to being physically within the story itself.
The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin, read by Robin Miles
I have Robin Miles to thank for my enduring love affair with her narration. The world of ‘fifth seasons’, where climatic chaos in the form of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions can wreak havoc on civilization for extended periods, is the backdrop for this mesmerizing tale. N. K. Jemisin’s masterful storytelling weaves together three intricate narratives into a rich tapestry that’s impossible to put down.
With few narrators I’d entrust with capturing the subtleties of this complex story, Miles proves herself to be an exceptional choice. Her performance is nothing short of flawless.
Memoirs (Read by the Author)
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s memoir is already an iconic work of literature, as evidenced by her recent Grammy win. As the wife of former President Barack Obama, Michelle has long been known for her captivating public speaking skills, which shine through in this audiobook. With her signature warmth, humor, and vulnerability, she recounts her experiences with unflinching honesty. While this is not a brief listen, I assure you that her engaging voice will keep you enthralled from start to finish.
Redefining Realness by Janet Mock
Mock’s memoir stands out for its poignant storytelling, as she recounts her experiences growing up trans in Honolulu with unwavering honesty and vulnerability. Her narration is characterized by a quiet strength, oscillating between raw emotional intensity and playful moments of levity. As she shares her personal story, it becomes impossible not to be deeply affected by her words, which are infused with a profound sense of authenticity that lingers long after the listening experience has ended.
When They Call You a Terrorist by Patrisse Khan-Cullors and Asha Bandele
The memoir, penned by the co-founder of Black Lives Matter, is a poignant and timely account of the far-reaching impact of police brutality and systemic racism on her family. Through her powerful narrative, she sheds light on what it means to be a queer black woman in America, recounting stories of love, loss, and trauma that have driven her towards activism.
As she shares tales of devastation and resilience, her words are infused with a deep sense of empathy and conviction, rendering the reader privy to the unflinching portrayal of the human cost of systemic injustice.
Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
Unlike traditional self-help books or inspirational memoirs, Rhimes’ narrative eschews prescriptive advice for a more authentic, tell-it-like-it-is approach. Her story is not about proscribing a specific path, but rather sharing how her own choices, including the occasional ‘no’, have contributed to building a life she loves.
Crucially, Rhimes acknowledges her privilege and weaves it throughout the book, ensuring that her experiences feel relatable and attainable for readers from diverse backgrounds. Her voice is warm, engaging, and infectious, making you feel like you’re having an intimate conversation with her in your own living room.
Hunger by Roxane Gay
Essay Collections (Read by the Author)
Eloquent Rage by Brittney Cooper
Cooper’s remarkable collection of essays masterfully weaves together themes of blackness, Black women, and Black feminism. With unflinching candor, she explores the role of rage in empowering Black women to drive meaningful change. Her insightful analyses span a wide range of topics, from politics and friendship to academia and interpersonal relationships. The sheer emotional resonance of her words is amplified when listening to her read them aloud.
This thought-provoking compilation is an indispensable resource for anyone committed to the feminist cause.
We Are Never Meeting in Real Life by Samantha Irby
When a comedian takes on the challenge of narrating their own audiobook, you can be sure it’s going to be a wild ride. Irby’s collection of essays masterfully blends humor and candor as she tackles topics like awkward sexual encounters, the absurdity of reality TV, and her eccentric feline companion.
But what truly sets her apart is her ability to dissect the complexities of adulting, navigating the South as a Black queer woman, and grappling with issues of body image – all with unflinching honesty and a wicked sense of humor. Her delivery is nothing short of impeccable, making this audiobook an absolute delight from start to finish.
This Will Be My Undoing by Morgan Jerkins
This book seamlessly integrates Jerkins’ personal anecdotes with meticulous analysis, yielding a unique blend of vulnerability and intellectual rigor. With unflinching candor, she dissects pop culture and feminism, before applying the same forthrightness to recounting her experiences as a Black girl and young Black woman. The result is a distinctive narrative voice that infuses the essays with an infectious vitality, making it challenging to tear oneself away from the pages.
Poetry (Read by the Author)
Duende by Tracy K. Smith
Smith’s poetry excels in its ability to balance beauty with brutality. The poems within this collection plumb the depths of history, expertly navigating both personal and political themes that intersect at the heart of art, survival, and geography. As the author reads her own work, it’s as if she embodies the confidence and precision that only a creator can bring to their own vision. Her voice is like a powerful undertow, drawing you in with its intensity and mesmerizing quality.
Yet, Smith’s careful delivery also imbues each poem with added depth and meaning, making this collection a true treasure worth revisiting multiple times.
Teaching My Mother How to Give Birth by Warsan Shire
This 30-minute audiobook is a masterclass in emotional resonance, with Shire’s words lingering long after the final note. Her poems about immigration, trauma, home, and the human experience are brought to life by her powerful voice, which conveys the depth of emotion without ever feeling forced or formal. The result is an extraordinary listening experience that will leave you moved and inspired.
It’s a testament to Shire’s skill as a narrator that even at just 30 minutes, this audiobook feels profound and lasting.