As an author, Shelley Fisher Fishkin’s latest challenge wasn’t writing a bestseller, but bringing it to life in audiobook form. With themes and text that defied traditional audiobook narration, Fishkin took a bold step: she decided to produce the audiobook herself.
When a publisher proved unable to find a narrator to do justice to Fishkin’s complex work, she knew it was time to take matters into her own hands. With a background in academic publishing, Fishkin had some experience with editing and production, but audiobook production is a unique beast. She began by learning the basics of recording and editing software, such as Audition and Pro Tools.
Hands-on Learning
As Fishkin waded into the world of audiobook production, she quickly realized that it’s not just about pressing record and letting the words flow. “Editing for the ear is different from editing for the page,” she explains. “You need to be aware of pacing, tone, and even the rhythm of the narration.” Fishkin experimented with different recording setups, from a simple USB microphone to a more advanced studio setup, to find the best sound for her book.
A New Appreciation
One of the most valuable lessons Fishkin learned from producing her own audiobook is the importance of a good narrator. While many authors might assume that finding the right narrator is a straightforward process, Fishkin discovered that it requires a delicate balance of tone, inflection, and pacing. “It’s not just about finding someone who can read the words correctly,” she notes. “You need someone who can bring the story to life.”
What this means: For authors looking to bring their books to life in audiobook form, Fishkin’s experience offers a valuable lesson: don’t underestimate the importance of production quality. Whether you choose to produce the audiobook yourself or work with a publisher, investing time and effort into finding the right narrator and production team can make all the difference.
Fishkin’s experience also highlights the growing accessibility of audiobook production tools, making it easier for authors to take on this process themselves. With a little practice and patience, even authors without a technical background can create high-quality audiobooks that do justice to their writing.
