Audiobooks under 5 hours

Epic stories spanning several days are undoubtedly appealing. However, there’s a unique satisfaction in completing an entire audiobook while doing other tasks, like cooking, folding laundry, or running errands. Short audiobooks allow you to maximize your time and stay on top of your to-be-read (TBR) list and Goodreads challenge.

Avid readers and book lovers will be happy to know there are plenty of binge-worthy audiobooks online on different services like Amazon’s Audible.

Here are our book recommendations for the best audiobooks to add to your reading list under 5 hours.

Great listens that are less than 5 hours

You can find good books under 5 hours in any genre, from sci-fi novellas to fairytale short stories. You can choose to enjoy historical fiction or go for nonfiction audiobooks.

We’ve selected the books on our list based on their captivating storylines and unforgettable narrations. Keep reading to learn more about these standout listens.

Red at the Bone by Jacqueline Woodson

“Red at the Bone” explores the unexpected ripple effects of an unplanned pregnancy on a family across three generations. The story starts at Melody’s coming-of-age party at her grandparents’ house in New York and goes back and forth in time. Melody was the unexpected baby, and right now, she’s the same age as her mother when she had her.

Thanks to a fantastic full cast of narrators, you’ll connect with each character as this engrossing story unfolds.

Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Thanks to the beloved animated film of the same name, you might not need a book review to tell you what happens in “Coraline.” Still, this audiobook is a must-listen as it transports you to the “other” world entirely.

This spooky realm seems oddly familiar and Coraline discovers it behind a locked door in her house. In the beginning, this world is a dream come true, with tastier food and better toys. But slowly, the “other” world starts revealing its true nature, forcing Coraline to devise an escape plan.

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling

The famed actress and comedian Mindy Kaling has a unique way with words, which can be best seen in her memoir “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?” This hilarious collection of stories has many laugh-out-loud moments, including Mindy’s stint as a Ben Affleck impersonator. This audiobook also offers the author’s observations on Hollywood and what makes a great best friend and a life-changing love story.

The Testament of Mary by Colm Toibin

“The Testament of Mary” is a unique novella that shows Mary, the mother of Jesus, in a new light. The story follows her inner monologue, depicting her as a bitter aging woman filled with self-doubt and worries about her son’s death and legacy.

A celebrity audiobook narrator tells this captivating story – none other than the iconic Meryl Streep. The actress knocks it out of the park with her performance, delivering each word with subtle emotion that is impossible to forget.

Elevation by Stephen King

“Elevation” is a moving story of an entire town banding together to help a man suffering from a mysterious condition. The man in question, Scott Carey, starts losing weight without getting thinner, which he only shares with his doctor friend, but word travels fast in small communities.

Eerie and compelling, this story explores the possibility of finding common ground despite fundamental differences.

Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown

In “Braving the Wilderness,” the best-selling author and down-to-earth scientist Brené Brown shares her views on what it means to belong in an increasingly polarized society. According to Brown, you can only truly belong somewhere if you live with integrity and authenticity.

Listeners can benefit immensely from applying the author’s wise words in their own lives.

Remote Control by Nnedi Okorafor

“Remote Control” is a beautiful tale about Sankofa’s efforts to discover the source of her unique powers. Everything she touches dies, so she journeys alone, searching for the mysterious alien artifact that turned her into Death’s adopted daughter.

This thrilling story touches on many themes – community, female empowerment, and losing one’s purpose in life. The captivating storyline will make you feel for each character despite the short time you share together.

Mom & Me & Mom by Maya Angelou

The legendary Maya Angelou wrote many stories about her life, each offering unique insight and a memorable message for the listener. In “Mom & Me & Mom,” she closely looks into her relationship with her mother, sharing the joys and struggles of their complicated relationship.

Angelou also narrates the book, making the story much more intimate.

Speechify

Speechify is a text to speech (TTS) software program that allows you to convert any digital text into an audio file. Then, you can export the audio file so you can listen to on the go, making it the perfect app for multitasking while on a road trip. With Speechify, you can listen to anything from emails and work documents to study materials and the latest news articles.

Speechify offers several features that will enhance your listening experience. You can change the narrator’s voice and adjust the pitch and speed to savor every minute. Plus, you can choose between dozens of different languages, allowing you to go international with your listening choices.

Enter this new world of possibilities by downloading Speechify for free today.

FAQ

What is the average length of a chapter in an audiobook?

The average length of a chapter in an audiobook is around 45 minutes.

What is the genre of “The Princess Bride”?

“The Princess Bride” is a fantasy fiction and romance audiobook.

What is the average length of an audiobook?

The average audiobook is approximately 10 hours long.