While wrapping up the audiobook for my first novel, My Invisible Father, I learned from the CEO of the audio production company that June is Audiobook Appreciation Month. In today’s world, it seems like there is a day or month dedicated to celebrating almost everything, from National Hamburger Day (May 28) and National Doughnut Day (the first Friday in June) to more unusual celebrations like Love Your Thighs Day, National Skipping Day, and Scream Day (all coincidentally on my birthday, April 24th). We are all familiar with well-known observances that celebrate various ethnic groups, but there are also lesser-known months like National Mentoring Month (January), National Bike Month (May), National Pizza Month (October), and National Novel Writing Month (November).
Audiobook Appreciation Month might be one of the lesser-known celebrations, but I believe it deserves more attention this June. For one, I’m just weeks away from completing my audiobook. More importantly, I want to highlight audiobooks’ growing popularity and importance, especially for struggling and reluctant readers. Audiobooks are not just for those with difficulty reading; they are a valuable resource for everyone. My reading regimen always includes reading a physical book and listening to a different audiobook when I’m in the car, doing housework, or sometimes while eating meals.
According to Publishers Weekly, audiobook revenue increased by 10% in 2022, reaching an estimated $1 billion in sales. Additionally, the percentage of adults in the United States listening to audiobooks rose from 45% in 2022 to 53% in 2023.
Audiobooks can be particularly beneficial for students who dislike reading, struggle with reading, or have dyslexia. These students might have difficulty following along with a written text because of focus issues or developmental delays in reading skills. Listening to books can help develop many of the same skills as reading, such as predicting, inferring, and questioning. Hearing stories also provides a model of fluent reading, which can be incredibly beneficial for all readers, not just those who struggle.
Some people believe listening to audiobooks is not actually reading, but I disagree. Listening to the audiobook while following along with the text can be a powerful strategy for students who have trouble decoding words. This dual-mode approach enhances the learning experience by combining audio and visual elements.
When students say they don’t like reading, I ask if they enjoy stories or obtaining information. Most do, which is why they watch TV shows and movies. Helping reluctant readers understand that reading can be entertaining and informative can change their attitude toward it. Once their attitude changes, their desire to read can also change. Audiobooks can be crucial in this transformation by making reading more accessible and enjoyable.
This Audio Appreciation Month, let’s celebrate the power of audiobooks and recognize their value in fostering a love of reading. Whether you are a reluctant reader or a book enthusiast, audiobooks offer a unique and enriching way to enjoy stories and information.
Remember to listen to the My Invisible Father audiobook when it releases. I’ll share the release date soon!