18 Inspiring Audiobooks for Grandma’s Listening Pleasure

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If you need ideas for a new book, I recommend getting one or two of these sensational audiobooks that act as entertainment and inspiration! Stirring and emotional tales can spark meaningful thoughts and are a beautiful way to get lost in a new world!

Check out 18 of my favorite audiobooks:

1. The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

The Giver of Stars: A Novel

This historically true story is based on the Pack Horse Library Project, which aimed to bring books to rural communities in the Appalachian region. The book emphasizes the strength of female friendship and collective action, making it perfect for grandmas who are tough and bold.

2. The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd

This work follows a white teenage girl who escapes her troubled home during the Civil Rights Movement of 1964 and finds refuge with a black family of beekeepers. The book explores race and identity and celebrates female empowerment, resilience, and forgiveness.

3. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale highlights the bravery of two sisters in war-torn France during World War II. The fictional work sheds light on the overlooked contributions of women during times of conflict. These contributions include courage, sacrifice, and bravery.

4. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Also set during World War II, this novel follows a young girl who finds solace in the written world during the horrors of Nazi Germany. The book reminds us of the enduring impact of literature and how ordinary people can defy tyranny through acts of compassion and bravery. 

5. Educated by Tara Westover

This memoir celebrates the pursuit of knowledge. The author opens up about growing up in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho. She explores the significance of education as personal liberation, intellectual growth, and breaking the cycle of ignorance and oppression.

6. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

This allegorical novel examines the universal quest for purpose and fulfillment in life. The book encourages the reader to pursue their dreams, practice endless personal growth, and listen to their hearts. It’s about finding unique treasures that make life worth living.

7. Pachinko by Min Jin Lee

This book follows a Korean family over several generations starting in the early 1900s. It has potent themes of survival and hope and highlights the nuances of Korean and Japanese cultures, which often clash with one another.

8. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

This fast-paced book is about three women who become entangled in a missing persons investigation whilst dealing with their own drama and trauma going on in their lives. It’s a highly relatable story despite the wild circumstances, appealing to grandmas with diverse interests.

9. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

This audiobook is about a small town with big drama. It follows the story of different families in the town who have opposing views concerning controversial topics like race, and the book has its fair share of mystery that keeps you guessing.

10. The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This dramatic and saucy story is about a famous and retired Hollywood actress who is ready to spill all the details about her rise to the top and what she did to get there. The book has romance, betrayal, and tragedy, perfect for grandmas who love dramas and soaps.

11. The Help by Kathryn Stockett

This wildly successful book, which is also a movie starring Emma Stone, is about the hardships and unjust treatment of black maids in the American South in the 60s. It’s written from the perspective of a wealthy young white girl who wants to tell their story.

12. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

Set in the 1920s, this book tells the story of an aristocrat shunned and sentenced to house arrest in a hotel. The witty main character sits in the hotel for decades as drastic historical events play out in the streets.

13. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

A beautifully written novel, this audiobook is about a young woman who struggles with social skills and filtering her thoughts. But things change when she meets an equally awkward and unusual man and an elderly gentleman in need of help, who make her feel understood.

14. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

A gripping novel about a girl who raised herself alone in a swamp, this audiobook has it all, so it’s perfect for grandmas with diverse interests. There are themes of romance, murder, wealth, class, and much more, so it will keep you on the edge of your seat.

15. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

In this story, an English writer based in London becomes penpals with a man from the island of Guernsey and decides to write a book about the island and its history. The book is warm and endearing with humor that will put a smile on your face!

16. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

A twisted and salacious story, this audiobook is about the death of a man, which could’ve been a tragic accident or a crime of passion. It includes intense themes surrounding parenting, marriage, friendship, relationships, and more.

17. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

This book is about a grouchy old man who doesn’t have any love for the world. He’s cranky and unpleasant, but everything changes when a messy but endearing young family moves into his neighborhood.

18. The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt

This Pulitzer Prize-winning book is about a young New Yorker mourning the loss of his mother. The main character enters the eccentric and unusual world of underground art and wealth, creating an engaging and unique narrative that draws the reader in.

From inspiring memories to gripping thrillers to mysterious tales, no matter what you like, there’s something here for everyone. Hope this list helps! 🙂

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