“Publishers are adapting non-fiction and graphic novels by using audio soundscapes to fill in what might be lost with no visuals. Now many authors are skipping print altogether and writing exclusive audio content,” Cobb said, adding that publishers are ever-widening the definition of an audiobook. “Twenty years ago an audiobook was taking a Stephen King novel and reading an abridged version. Given the increased desire for audio content, publishers are continuously exploring new ways to grab listeners’ attention. SKIP AHEAD Where to get audiobooks | Best audiobooks for getting started Yet perhaps even more surprising is the age of those listening in: According to the APA, 54% of audiobook listeners are under the age of 45, up 52% from 2019. Audiobooks are experiencing a huge growth spurt, largely because people want to unplug, relax and just listen to a good story, according to Michele Cobb, executive director of the Audio Publishers Association (APA), which reported double-digit growth in the audio publishing space for the tenth consecutive year in 2021.

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