Self- Care

How to Reignite Your Passion for Reading with Audiobooks

Estimated reading time: 17 minutes

This article shares my top 5 best audiobooks for 2023. Discover the magic of audiobooks and explore the pages of inspiration waiting to be heard!

Join me as I share how audiobooks rekindled my love for books, offering a haven for tired eyes and a words reawakening my imagination. 

Table of contents

A Refuge for Tired Eyes

Since July 2020, audiobooks have become my oasis. It is a place where I lose myself in the world of literature without the battle of blurry text and weary eyes. 

Each audiobook is like a breath of fresh air, allowing me to explore stories, immerse myself in narratives, and escape into other realms. All while giving my eyes a well-deserved break.

Authorial Magic in My Ears

One of the things I cherish most about audiobooks is the intimate connection they offer. 

Hearing authors narrate their own works is like having a heart-to-heart conversation with them. 

The inflections in their voices, the nuances they bring, it’s a personal touch, making each story feel like a private tête-à-tête between me and the creative genius behind it all.

Reviving Bestsellers and Timeless Classics

With audiobooks, I’m not limited to just bestsellers of the moment. 

I often dive into the cherished classics I’ve always loved. Over the past few years, listening to audiobooks has been like rediscovering old friends but with a newfound twist. 

As the stories unfold through my headphones, I find myself transported, my imagination ignited, and my thirst for the written word quenched in a tailor-made way.

Immersive Narration, Captivating Experience

Picture yourself being serenaded by the voices of skilled narrators, bringing characters and stories to life. 

Audiobooks ensure an immersive experience that transports you to different worlds, invoking a rollercoaster of emotions. 

Whether on a jog, commuting, or simply relaxing, narrators will keep you engrossed.

Navigating audiobook platforms is a breeze, even if you’re not tech-savvy. 

You can effortlessly discover your next audiobook obsession, selecting from a vast collection that caters to your interests. 

Finding an affordable audiobook platform has been my refuge, my companion through countless hours of joyous listening. It’s where my love for literature found a way to thrive, even when my eyes disagreed. 

If you love reading and want a solution to rest your eyes, I highly recommend audiobooks!

Below are some of the gems you will discover.

My Picks for 5 Best Audiobooks (2023)

Step into a world of literary wonder with my handpicked selection of top audiobooks for 2023.

From the empowering journey of Alicia Keys to the heartwarming tales of love and growth, these audiobooks are more than mere stories. They’re immersive experiences that will captivate your senses and resonate deep within.

Join me on a voyage of self-discovery with Alicia Keys’ (2020) ‘More Myself,’ embark on an emotional rollercoaster with Colleen Hoover’s (2016) ‘It Ends with Us,’ and let Michelle Obama’s (2022) ‘The Light We Carry’ illuminate your path.

Indulge in tales of resilience and transformation with ‘Green Lights’ (2020) and delve into the complex tapestry of relationships in ‘Aleph.’ (2010)

These picks are not just audiobooks but doorways to inspiration, laughter, and introspection.

So, plug in your headphones and let these captivating narratives weave their magic as you explore the realms of human experience and imagination.

Be Illuminated with Michelle Obama’s New Book (Audiobook)

Diving into Michelle Obama’s ‘The Light We Carry’ is like sitting down for a heart-to-heart with a dear friend.

After the phenomenal success of ‘Becoming’ (2018), Michelle Obama returns to offer us a beacon of hope, guiding us through life’s twists and turns with a warmth that’s uniquely hers.

As she weaves personal anecdotes with timeless wisdom, you’ll find yourself not just listening to her words but feeling them resonate deep within.

‘The Light We Carry’ is an intimate conversation with the former First Lady.

An invitation to embrace optimism even in the face of uncertainty.

3 Life Lessons from Michelle Obama

‘The Light We Carry’ is a treasure trove of wisdom and insight.

Here are three poignant life lessons gleaned from her inspiring journey:

Embrace the Power of Resilience

Michelle Obama’s life story is a testament to the incredible strength of the human spirit.

From growing up in a modest household to navigating the challenges of public life, she consistently demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity.

Her experiences remind us setbacks and difficulties are inevitable but don’t define us. Instead, they are catalysts for growth, resilience, and success.

Cultivate Authenticity and Self-Discovery

Throughout the book, Michelle Obama explores her journey of self-discovery and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Her willingness to question societal expectations, choices, and identity offers a powerful lesson in embracing authenticity.

Michelle’s story encourages us to reflect on our own paths, acknowledge our true selves, and embrace the unique qualities making us who we are.

Empowerment through Education and Empathy

Michelle Obama’s commitment to education, empathy, and giving back shines brightly.

Her emphasis on the transformative power of education and the importance of reaching out to support others underscores the profound impact we can have on our communities and the world.

Her story inspires us to not only pursue our own dreams but also extend a helping hand to those around us, fostering a sense of empowerment and collective progress.

As you explore ‘The Light We Carry,’ these lessons resonate as guiding beacons, offering insights into navigating life’s challenges, fostering personal growth, and making a positive impact on the lives of others.

So, prepare to be inspired as Michelle Obama takes you on a transformative journey through ‘The Light We Carry.’

Trust me. You won’t want to miss this remarkable new release destined to be a cherished companion on your audiobook adventures!

Reconnect with your Soul and Discover Your Hidden Treasures with Paulo Coelho (Audiobook)

Embarking on Paulo Coelho’s ‘Aleph’ felt like unearthing a treasure map to my own soul.

‘Aleph’ is a transformative experience whispering to my very being.

Coelho, the master of guiding us through life’s labyrinth, takes us on his most personal journey yet, a journey of self-discovery that shook me to my core.

Like the beloved character in ‘The Alchemist’ (1988), Paulo grapples with a crisis of faith hitting too close to home.

This time, we walk alongside him as he sets out to rewrite his destiny, to mend the fractures within himself. He seeks to recharge his spirit and unlock new layers of passion through Africa, Europe, Asia, and the rhythmic beats of the Trans-Siberian Railway.

But amid his odyssey, the universe has other plans. Hilal, a gifted violinist, emerges from the threads of time, a soul he loved and wronged five hundred years ago.

You’ll be transported on their mystical voyage as they navigate the realms of love, forgiveness, and unearthing our most profound courage and crossing the boundaries of time and space.

‘Aleph’ is a mirror reflecting your own personal journey.

It asks the questions we often avoid:

  • Are we truly where we’re meant to be?
  • Are we living with purpose, chasing our dreams with fervor?

Coelho’s words are a call to introspection. An invitation to dive into the depths of our existence.

3 Life Lessons from Paulo Coelho

‘Aleph’ by Paulo Coelho is a transformative odyssey offering profound insights into life and self-discovery.

Here are three key life lessons resonating from its pages:

Embrace the Journey of Self-Discovery

Through the protagonist’s quest to find his own “Aleph,” a point of convergence of time and space, Coelho invites readers to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery.

The novel underscores the importance of introspection, seeking deeper truths about ourselves, and being open to embracing the unknown.

The lesson here is pursuing self-awareness is a lifelong endeavor, and every experience contributes to our growth and understanding.

Courage to Confront the Past

‘Aleph’ explores confronting past mistakes, regrets, and unresolved emotions.

The characters grapple with their own histories, seeking to heal and find closure.

Coelho’s narrative encourages us to confront our own pasts, acknowledge our mistakes, and work towards healing and forgiveness.

By doing so, we free ourselves from the burdens of the past and open the door to a more fulfilling present and future.

Embrace Synchronicity and Spiritual Connection

The concept of synchronicity, where events align in meaningful ways, is a central theme in ‘Aleph.’

Coelho suggests a deeper, interconnected fabric of the universe guides us toward our destinies.

This lesson urges us to pay attention to the signs and synchronicities in our lives, trust our intuition, and cultivate a spiritual connection.

Doing so makes us find purpose and meaning in seemingly coincidental events and experiences.

As you delve into the world of ‘Aleph,’ these life lessons unfold as invitations to explore the depths of your own existence, confront your truths, and connect with the spiritual undercurrents that shape our lives.

Coelho’s narrative offers a tapestry of wisdom encouraging personal growth, self-awareness, and a deeper appreciation for the mysteries of life.

Travel Across Continents and Time with Matthew McConaughey (Audiobook)

‘Green Lights’ by Matthew McConaughey is an intimate conversation with a sage traveler who’s spent fifty years deciphering life’s riddles.

McConaughey shares his personal odyssey of successes and failures, joys and sorrows, and the lessons that shaped him along the way.

In this literary journey, McConaughey takes us by the hand and walks us through his diary of life.

Thirty-five years of notes, photographs, and contemplations.

He unveils the art of dealing with life’s challenges, offering a perspective transforming inevitable obstacles into opportunities. It’s a philosophy he aptly terms “catching green lights.”

With the backdrop of a desert oasis, McConaughey penned this heartfelt collection of stories, insights, and revelations. It’s a record of his adventures, a compilation of the moments that left him amazed and those making him laugh.

Through the lens of his experiences, he imparts not just wisdom but a prescription for living a life of meaning, joy, and authenticity.

‘Green Lights’ is a medicine for the soul. It’s the perfect blend of aspirin for life’s headaches and a joyful spaceship propelling you to uncharted territories of existence. It’s a letter of love to life, celebrating its beauties, brutalities, and everything.

As you immerse yourself in McConaughey’s narrative, you’ll find guidance for chasing your own green lights. It’s a compass pointing towards a life filled with purpose, laughter, and the courage to dance through rainstorms.

3 Life Lessons from Matthew McConaughey

“Greenlights” by Matthew McConaughey is a captivating journey through his life experiences, offering valuable insights and life lessons. Here are three key takeaways from his memoir:

Embrace Life’s Challenges as “Greenlights”

McConaughey introduces the concept of “greenlights” as moments aligned with our path.

Whether they appear as challenges or opportunities, he encourages us to reframe our perspective on adversity. Viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

By approaching life with an open heart and mind, we can find value in every experience, even the ones that initially seem like roadblocks.

Live Authentically and Unapologetically

McConaughey’s journey is a testament to his authenticity and refusal to conform to societal norms.

He shares anecdotes of his unconventional choices and his willingness to follow his own instincts.

The memoir teaches us to trust our inner compass, be true to ourselves, and take risks to pursue our passions.

Living authentically leads to personal fulfillment and inspires others to embrace their uniqueness.

Find Meaning in the Journey

Throughout ‘Greenlights,’ McConaughey emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in the journey rather than focusing solely on goals or destinations.

He encourages us to savor life’s moments, connect with others, and appreciate the present.

By embracing the process of self-discovery, personal growth, and connection, we lead richer, more fulfilling lives.

As you immerse yourself in McConaughey’s stories and reflections, these life lessons become guideposts for living with intention, authenticity, and resilience.

‘Greenlights’ reminds us life is a dynamic tapestry of experiences, challenges, and joys. It’s up to us to navigate this tapestry with curiosity, courage, and a willingness to see the “greenlights” along the way.

‘Green Lights’ reminds us of every phase, even the yellows and reds. eventually leads to the radiant hue of green.

So, open the pages, embark on this journey, and let Matthew McConaughey be your companion on the road to a life illuminated by green lights.

Indulge, Let Go, and Immerse in Love with Colleen Hoover (Audiobook)

Ah, the allure of a captivating fiction novel! It’s like savoring a slice of indulgent chocolate cake for breakfast. A guilty pleasure leaving you craving more.

And let me tell you about this literary masterpiece that’s just waiting to sweep you off your feet!

Imagine being pulled into a story gripping your heart and refusing to let go.

‘It Ends with Us,’ a gem by the #1 New York Times bestselling author behind ‘It Starts with Us’ and ‘All Your Perfects,’ is a journey to resonate deep within your soul.

The Story

From the very first page, you’ll find yourself entangled in the life of Lily. A fierce go-getter who’s worked her way up from a small town to the bustling streets of Boston.

Her life seems perfect when a magnetic neurosurgeon, Ryle Kincaid, enters the scene. His existence causes sparks to fly and her heart to race.

Ryle is a paradox. Assertive yet sensitive, stubborn yet brilliant. His presence is both a thrill and a puzzle Lily can’t help but solve.

As their connection deepens, Lily questions Ryle’s no-relationship stance. Unraveling the layers of his past that shaped him into who he is today.

But just when she thinks she has it all figured out, Atlas Corrigan, Lily’s first love, resurfaces, casting a shadow on her chosen path.

‘It Ends with Us’ is an emotional rollercoaster tugging at your heartstrings.

The pages come alive with honest, evocative prose. Inviting you to explore the complexities of love, the struggles of making choices, and the ties binding us to our past.

You’ll feel the characters’ joys and sorrows with every turn as if they were your own. You’ll find yourself asking the very questions that Lily faces:

  • What defines a relationship?
  • What makes us who we are?
  • How do we reconcile the past with the present?

‘It Ends With Us’ is a timeless keepsake, a story to linger in your thoughts long after the final page.

3 Life Lessons from Colleen Hoover

‘It Ends with Us’ by Colleen Hoover is a poignant exploration of love, resilience, and personal growth.

Here are three life lessons that resonate from the pages of this powerful novel:

Break the Cycle of Pain

The novel delves into the complexities of abusive relationships and the importance of breaking the cycle of pain.

As the protagonist navigates her own struggles, readers witness her journey to recognize unhealthy patterns and make difficult decisions.

This serves as a reminder that recognizing and addressing toxic dynamics is essential for our well-being and those around us.

Strength in Empathy and Understanding

Through its characters, ‘It Ends with Us’ highlights the power of empathy and understanding.

The novel encourages us to see beyond surface appearances and judgments. Reminding us every individual carries their own burdens and experiences.

By practicing empathy, we foster deeper connections, support one another, and contribute to a more compassionate world.

Courage to Make Difficult Choices

The novel portrays the challenges of making difficult, life-altering choices.

It underscores that the path to personal growth often involves making decisions that are painful in the short term but ultimately contribute to our long-term well-being.

‘It Ends with Us’ inspires us to summon the courage to confront challenges head-on, even when the choices are heart-wrenching.

As you navigate the emotional landscapes of this book, these life lessons remind us of the importance of self-awareness, empathy, and the strength to make choices aligned with our values.

Leading us to healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Be Inspired by The Power of Women with Alicia Keys (Audiobook)

Alicia Keys emerges as a guiding light in a world yearning for genuine inspiration.

Her story is a mesmerizing testament to the power of self-discovery and the pursuit of unapologetic authenticity.

Picture a stage bathed in the spotlight, where Alicia’s soulful melodies have touched hearts across the globe.

But beyond the mesmerizing performances lies a journey of personal triumph and soul-baring transformation, leaving you in awe.

‘More Myself’ is an audiobook where Alicia takes center stage, sharing her life’s melodies, harmonies, and the raw emotions shaping her path.

The Narrative

She weaves her narrative with a touch of magic, punctuating her tale with special guest appearances.

A symphony of voices, including Jay-Z, Michelle Obama, and others.

Alicia’s journey is one of conquering the cacophony of self-doubt and rising above the challenges clouding her path.

The chords of her life’s music resonate through her anecdotes, from the complexities of father-daughter relationships to the pressure cooker of perfection society’s demands of women.

Yet, even in the glare of fame, Alicia discovered a hidden truth. A story of self-censorship and silent battles she grappled with, like so many of us.

As you listen, you’ll be transported through time, wandering the streets of Hell’s Kitchen and Harlem, navigating the labyrinth of self-discovery alongside Alicia.

With each word, you’ll be drawn deeper into her world, her questions echoing through your own journey:

  • Who am I, really?
  • How can I embrace my uniqueness and share it with the world?

‘More Myself’ is a love letter to individuality, an anthem of courage echoing far beyond the confines of its pages.

Alicia’s vibrant narration, peppered with snippets of her music, draws you in. Enveloping you in a cocoon of authenticity that’s hard to resist.

Through her story, she invites us all to join the chorus of self-definition, daring us to embrace the symphony of our own lives.

3 Life Lessons from Alicia Keys

‘More Myself’ by Alicia Keys is a profound exploration of self-discovery and empowerment.

Here are three powerful life lessons specifically tailored for women that emerge from the narrative:

Embrace Your Authentic Voice

Alicia Keys’ journey underscores the importance of embracing your authentic self and voice.

As a woman, breaking free from societal expectations and norms is crucial, allowing your true essence to shine.

The book encourages you to celebrate your uniqueness, embrace your passions, and confidently express your thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment.

Forge Your Own Path

Alicia’s story emphasizes the significance of carving out your own path in a world filled with expectations and preconceived notions.

As a woman, pursuing your dreams and ambitions is empowering, even if they diverge from the conventional.

The book encourages you to follow your passions, set your own goals, and find the courage to navigate uncharted territories with resilience and determination.

Prioritize Self-Care and Empowerment

‘More Myself’ highlights the importance of self-care, self-love, and empowerment for women.

It underscores the significance of nurturing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

The book encourages you to set boundaries, prioritize your needs, and cultivate a strong sense of self-worth, enabling you to navigate life’s challenges with grace and confidence.

Alicia Keys’ journey inspires women to embrace their authentic selves, pursue their aspirations boldly, and prioritize their well-being as they navigate the complexities of life.

You’ll feel empowered to step into your narrative, redefine success on your terms, and contribute to a world where individuality is celebrated and empowered.

So, if you’re ready for an unforgettable auditory journey that’s part autobiography, part soulful ballad, ‘More Myself’ is your ticket to the world of Alicia Keys.

In this world, breaking barriers, shattering ceilings, and embracing your own worth become the sweetest harmonies.

Let her captivating tale resound in your heart and be the backdrop to your own journey of empowerment and self-discovery.

Start Your Audiobook Adventure

Audiobooks are your partner in escapism, offering a gateway to endless stories and limitless imagination.

Take advantage of this opportunity to join the audiobook revolution.

Thanks for stopping by!

Until next time,

Suzanne