10 Best Audiobooks Under 8 Hours

Even the most rapacious of readers sometimes struggle to find time from the strict schedules to read. And even long audiobooks can seem taxing at such times. But here’s the good news. You need not compromise on your schedule to sneak in short but sweet bursts of audiobook sprints! Here is a list of 10 best audiobooks under 8 hours.

On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong

This book, narrated by the author himself, takes us through the coming-of-age journey of a Vietnamese American boy. The book is in the form of a letter that ‘Little Dog’ writes to his illiterate mother, and explores tender adolescent experiences. With lucid prose that is more like poetry, this book talks of difficult topics like being homosexual, the Vietnamese war, abuse and identity.

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead

Narrtor JD Jackson lends his lyrical voice to this Pulitzer prize winner about two boys who go to the Nickel Academy, a ‘chamber of horrors’. Indeed, rife with sexual and physical abuse and immorality, this place stinks of doom. And our young protagonists must navigate their way and come unscathed, which is difficult considering certain decisions they make.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi

This book, set in a cozy Tokyo Café, follows the story of four people who decide to go back in time to re-experience certain events. Ariana Li’s enchanting voice, coupled with the magical realism of the plot and dreaminess of the setting make this an incredible listen. Plus, the stories are poignant as well.

Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse

Harish Bhimani’s version of Nobel laureate Hesse’s masterpiece is simply incredible. The book itself follows the spiritual journey of Siddhartha, a Brahmin’s son as he becomes a shamana, a householder and ultimately a boatman’s apprentice. Full of Indian wisdom and philosophical undertones, this book is perfect for a laidback evening.

South of the Border, West of the Sun by Haruki Murakami

Eric Loren’s rendition of one of Murakami’s finest works takes the reader on Hajime’s life journey, as he meets an old love. This book is full of Murakami’s typical style – detached but full of emotion at the same time. Also brimming with Japanese culture, this book touches that piece of Japan we all carry within.

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

This evergreen classic, in Stephen Fry’s narration, tells the story of a handsome young man who wishes that his portrait grow old and ugly instead of him. When his wish is granted, he spirals down a black hole of immortality. Every sin of his is reflected on the portrait’s face while his own remains unblemished and innocent.

Lincoln in the Bardo by George Saunders

This book won the Pulitzer Prize and for good reason. The events of the book all transpire in a graveyard over the course of a single night. Taking the historical story of Abraham Lincoln, Saunders weaves a narrative of love, life and loss into it.

Snow Country by Yasunari Kawabata

In Brian Nishii’s narration, the Nobel laureate Kawabata’s finest work becomes all the more enthralling. This story of a married man returning to meet his lover in the coldest region of Japan is full of symbolism, metaphor and richness. Written in the classic Japanese style of restraint, this is a brilliant work of art, elevated by audio.

The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

This tiny audiobook under two hours contains some of the deepest philosophy of life. In the book, a prophet gives villagers, as he leaves, a distillation of his wisdom on a variety of topics. These include love, joy, beauty, sadness, work, leisure, age, time, marriage, children and more. Derrick M Narrates the book.

Slaughter house Five by Kurt Vonnegut

Narrated by Ethan Hawke, this masterpiece follows Billy Pilgrim through his life. This American classic is full of adventure and wisdom, typical of Kurt Vonnegut.

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