A Brief Introduction About Audiobooks

Audiobooks are one of the fastest growing spheres within the publishing industry today. And continue to surprise industry insiders for the increase in revenue in recent times.

According to the Audio Publishers Association (APA), audiobook revenue increased by an estimated 10% back in 2022. Thus, resulting in the annual sales to total up to $1.8 billion.

This only confirms what’s already predicted: the said market continues to diversify and expand with each passing year. The reason is simple.

Audiobooks come in a user-friendly format. This allows any listener to access their favorite book in audio form. Thus, leaving them with ample time for other hobbies and activities too.

Hence, enabling readers to keep up with their reading habits in a unique manner. Audiobooks are a dynamic form of storytelling.

But, they existed in the form of spoken tradition before. The present format has only further helped to craft a specific niche.

Especially since the demand rose for audiobooks in the market. Hence, audiobook publishers are transforming literature in the new century.

While elevating the experience for listeners everywhere in the country and even abroad.

Whether you are a new author, whose thinking of exploring this area or want to make a switch in your writing career then you are at the right place! Because we have just the list for you!

Audiobook Best Production Companies Near You!

Want to step into the world of audiobook production?

Well then, get ready for an unforgettable audio experience and bring your words to life. Unveiling some of the top 8 audiobook production companies and publishers in the U.S. today:

Macmillan Audio

This publishing company carved a niche for itself in the domain of audiobooks. And offer the latest options to a diverse target audience. Thus, catering to a variety of tastes.

Established in 1987, the UK-based audiobook publisher is also one of the Big 5. The others are HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Penguin Random House, and Hachette.

These major publishers lead the print book industry, They shine within the audiobook domain as well.

Macmillan Audio is the recipient of countless awards. Such as the Earphones Award, the Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album, or the Audie Award.

Like its parent company, the audiobook division is committed to producing high-quality content. While collaborating with an eclectic talent pool as they bring beautiful stories to life.

Some Popular Audiobooks by Macmillan Audio:

• Arya Khanna’s Bollywood Moment by Arushi Avachat
  Read by Nikhaar Kishnani
• The Gatekeeper: A Dez Limerick Novel (Volume 1) by James Byrne
  Read by John Keating
• The Little Shop of Found Things: Found Things (Volume 1) by Paula Brackston
  Read by Marisa Calin
• When Grumpy Met Sunshine by Charlotte Stein
  Read by Emily Spowage

Penguin Random House Audio

Penguin Random House audiobook division ranks high in the publishing industry. Just like its parent company. And for good reason too!

Although, it might just be another branch of the publisher but it holds its ground. That’s because the publishing industry is another strong contender in audiobook publishing.

Noted for its expansive yet diverse catalog. So, whether you are in search of best seller releases or want something from the classics, you will surely find it with The Penguin Random House Audio.

The Penguin Random House Audio catalog comprises the likes of Presidents. Like George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama.

Followed by celebrated authors, such as Ta-Nehisi Coates, Elizabeth Gilbert, Brené Brown, John Grisham, Toni Morrison, Margaret Atwood, and George R. R. Martin to name a few.

Some Popular Audiobooks by Penguin Random House Audio:

• The Heaven Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
  Read by Dominic Hoffman
• Life in Five Senses by Gretchen Rubin
  Read by Gretchen Rubin
• Happy Place by Emily Henry
  Read by Julia Whelan
• Spare by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex
  Read by Prince Harry

HarperAudio

Another company division that holds great repute is HarperAudio. The audiobook faction of HarperCollins is as renowned as its print division is.

It has successfully taken great strides to establish its own name in the audiobook sector. Hence, Harper Audio remains one of the largest audiobook publishers in the industry.

Despite being a traditional publisher for print books, HarperAudio releases both non-fiction and fiction books.

This, unfortunately also means that authors affiliated with the literary banner are unable to retain full rights  to their published books.

Moreover, new authors interested will have to get a literary agent involved to work with the publisher.

It continues to enjoy perks, thanks to its reputation, allowing the company remains true to its commitment and produce high-quality audio content.

Thus, making sure that it retains its spot among the top companies for audiobook production.

So, if you are thinking of getting your first audiobook, try HarperAudio to build your audiobook collection, just the way you like! Some Popular Audiobooks are:

• The Lost and Found Bookshop by Susan Wiggs
  Read by Emily Rankin
•  The Success Principles by Jack Canfield
  Read by Jack Canfield
• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  Read by Sissy Spacek
• Dance Away with Me by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
  Read by Nicole Poole

Simon & Schuster Audio

Simon & Schuster is another book publishing company that comes with its audiobook division. And enjoys serving a diverse catalog to target audiences. Delivering high-quality audios, Simon & Schuster Audio continues to make significant contributions in the relevant domain.

No wonder, it is among the leading audiobook publishers in the world. Utilizing state-of-the-art tech with experts involved in different stages, one can truly get an immersive listening experience.

The Simon & Schuster Audio catalog includes some of the best-selling fiction and nonfiction books.

These include business and finance, language, history, at, humanities, the sciences, self-improvement, inspiration and learning programs, followed by original productions as well.

Some Popular Audiobooks by Simon & Schuster Audio:

• The Palace By Gareth Russell
  Read by John Telfer
• A Christmas Carol (Reissue) By Charles Dickens
  Read by Patrick Stewart
• The Book of Animal Secrets By David B. Agus
  Read by Jonathan Todd Ross
• The Recovery Agent By Janet Evanovich
  Read by Lorelei King

Hachette Audio

Hachette Audio is another of one of the Big 5. It continues to surprise target audiences with its exceptional audio lineup.

Known for publishing top-notch content both in non-fiction and fiction genres, Hachette has been in the industry since 2000. With a focus on innovation, the audiobook division continues to elevate the listening experience of the customer.

You can simply view this by the number of innumerable nominations and awards that Hachette Audio Productions boasts of!

Recognized for 200+ Audie Award Nominations, followed by 47 wins, the audiobook production company holds 24 Grammy nominations and some 9 wins.

It has more than 60 Listen Up! Awards from Publishers Weekly, followed by 150 wins at the Earphones Awards from AudioFile Magazine.

And doesn’t seem to be slowing in any way! Some Popular Audiobooks by Hachette Audio:

• David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants by Malcolm Gladwell
  Read by Malcolm Gladwell
• Bossypants by Tina Fey
  Read by Tina Fey
• Mermaids And The Vampires Who Love Them By Debra Goelz
  Read by Cassandra Morris
• Midnight Sun By Stephenie Meyer
  Read by Jake Abel

Audible

If there is one company that has been lucrative in the business of audio storytelling, it is Audible. From converting popular books into audiobooks to producing original series, Audible has done it all.

Being a subsidiary of, Audible boasts of being high-accessibility. For its available in nearly 47 languages to more than 180 countries across the globe!

Being a pioneer of the audiobook industry, the company aims to provide a platform for budding writers. While simultaneously produce a refreshing content catalog.

No wonder it is one of the most successful audiobook producers in the country. Some Popular Audiobooks by Audible:

• The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo
  Read by Emily Woo Zeller
• Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking by Samin Nosrat
  Read by: Samin Nosrat
• Divergent by Veronica Roth
  Read by: Emma Galvin
• Little Wolf by K.T. Tomb
  Read by Virtual Voice

Blackstone Publishing

Blackstone Publishing specializes in audiobook production, which charm and inspire audiences everywhere. One can see this in their commitment to quality that extends to all their production.

No wonder it has quite a presence within the audiobook landscape! For it has earned the trust of its listeners. It further aims to foster an immersive audio experience with the platform!

Despite being an independent publisher, Blackstone Audio has published more than 30,000 audiobook titles successfully.

So, if you are in search of a trustworthy book publishing company that produces compelling audiobook content as well, go with Blackstone Publishing and see how high your writing career flies!

Some Popular Audiobooks by Blackstone Publishing:

• 1984 (New Classic Edition) by George Orwell
  Read by Simon Prebble
• The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich (Expanded and Updated) by Timothy Ferriss
  Read by Ray Porter
• 100 Ways to Create Wealth by Sam Beckford, Steve Chandler
  Read by Steve Chandler
• The Queen’s Gambit by Walter Tevis
  Read by Amy Landon

Dreamscape Media

Another book publishing company that has surprisingly exceeded expectations is Dreamscape Media. It has been a driving force within the American audiobook industry and remains a notable one.

Offering both classics and modern titles, Dreamscape Media offers a vast selection for its consumers. It has been publishing audiobooks in both fiction and non-fiction genres.

Some great read-along video programs are offered for young kids as well. While all book-based audio content is available via traditional outlets, interested listeners may find several different options as they like.

Additionally, they have also partnered with Hoopla Digital. This is a popular library-based digital platform with some 5.5 million patrons or even more.

Some Popular Audiobooks by Dreamscape Media:

• Ms. Marvel: A Marvel Omnibus by G. Willow Wilson and Marvel
  Read by Shanta Parasuraman
• 100 Ways to Improve Your Writing: Proven Professional Techniques for Writing With Style and Power by Gary Provost
  Read by Pat Grimes
• All Mixed Up by Smartypants Romance and Heidi Hutchinson
  Read by Bradley Ford and Scarlett Everdeen
• 20 Things I Know For Sure: Principles for Cultivating a Peaceful Life by Karen Casey (Ph.D.)
  Read by Becky White

Tips for Choosing an Audiobook Production Company

Ready to embark on a new book-related project? Want to convert your text to an audiobook format but unsure about this new domain?

While it all begins when you select the right company for your work, there is more to it than meets the eye. Want to know if an audiobook company is worth your time and money?

Don’t worry. We got you! Just scroll down to find out the various aspects that you need to be careful about:

Tip #1: The Narrator

The narrator you select for your audiobook is crucial as it determines the success of your book. And this applies to both ways – whether you are a new writer or an experienced author.

Some companies allow the author to take part in the narrator selection process. Many others don’t. If you do get the option, consider a narrator, whose voice, style, and tone aligns with your book goals.

Tip #2: Company Portfolio

This aspect is also important. Always keep a check on – is the reputation of your selected company and their experience in the said area.

While new companies may not break your pocket. But they may also not have the expertise that you are in search of. Hence, the opposite stands true if you opt for a well-established company.

Let this factor be your guide for your new book-related project. Research for a reasonable audiobook production company.

Tip #3: Audiobook Production Quality

Moving on, once you have assessed the various options and selected a company, you are ready to move to the next step.

These include features, such as sound engineering, quality and clarity, editing and mastering, meeting industry standards to name a few. Followed by production quality.

Listen to the samples of the produced audiobooks. It will help you gauge the quality of the production. Also, check that your selected audiobook production company uses the latest studio equipment.

See if its been recorded in a proper studio space. These are some ways to ensure that you get a polished and professional end-product.

Tip #4: Customer Budget & the Total Cost

Before delving into the process, outline a budget for the upcoming project. Ask for quotes and pricing structure from all such potential audiobook production companies.

Check up on the total cost. Low-cost options may attract you. But they do affect product quality on the whole. That’s why you need to be wary of all such cheap options.

Tip #5: Author Contracts, Book Rights & Royalties

Once you have taken care of the basics, jump onto the technicalities like distribution and rights, contracts, etc. It is important to know where you stand with your selected book publisher.

Check the length and duration of the contractual period with the company. Also, inquire and clarify every detail about the distribution rights.

See that you can independently cater to this section or not. While these are just a handful of legal aspects, its important for the writer to know how much control he has over his book.

Furthermore, a little insight into the legal framework structured for the creative. Get your lawyer involved to understand the various sections of your contract with the chosen audiobook publication company.

Wrapping It Up,

Let this article help you serve a helpful guide and makes your new journey in the domain of audiobook production and distribution easy and simple.

Once you know where you stand with the publisher and how you intend to take things further, it will be easier to select and work with the said company.

If that’s the case, then we suggest that you select an audiobook production company like Book Quill. Our team are experts of the field and will help you chart your course, exactly how you want.

So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us right now!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What are the best audiobook production services?
Some of the best audiobook production services include:

• Macmillan Audio
• HarperAudio
• Hachette Audio

Q. Which audio book subscription is a cost effective option?
Audible is a great place to start if you are in search for cost effective options.

Q. Are their any independent audiobook publishers in the US?
Yes, Blackstone Publishing is one of the largest independent audiobook publishers within the country.