The popularity of audiobooks continues to rise each year.
And guys like you and me are a big reason why.
According to a 2020 Edison Research study, the average audiobook users are affluent men, between the ages of 18 and 34. They listen to at least four audiobooks every 12 months, primarily for entertainment and brain stimulation.
If you haven’t jumped on the audiobook bandwagon yet, there’s no better time.
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Why Should Every Guy Listen to Audiobooks?
The debate on whether the Internet is making us dumber has raged on for decades now. And the short answer seems to be “yes and no.”
Regardless, if you’re like me, I’m sure you’ve been down the Google or YouTube rabbit hole for hours on end. And, when you return to consciousness, you’re no better off having learned every detail about The Sopranos or the 1997 Atlanta Braves.
But for all the useless information available to us these days, the Internet also makes it much easier to find and consume knowledge on important topics. Thanks to the web, well-researched and vetted audiobooks on any given subject are more accessible than ever.
Audiobooks not only help us to learn and grow just like regular books do, they do so in a way that’s more conducive to our busy schedules. With the audio version, you can finish a book in a few hours instead of days, weeks or, let’s be honest—even months.
Just like with podcasts, audiobooks allow you to maximize your efficiency and listen while you’re working on your abs at the gym, driving, doing housework, or any time you’re tired of listening to the same songs from your playlist over and over.
Before you fork out any money, you can grab a free 30-day Audible Plus trial to see if it’s a habit you’ll stick with:
Start with a free 30-day trial of our go-to audiobook service, Audible Plus. It's a listen all you want plan with access to audiobooks, audible originals, and podcasts.
With the scene set, I present to you my handpicked collection of the 50 best audiobooks that will help you become a more well-rounded dude.
I’ve also included a few for entertainment purposes; because we all need a rabbit hole sometimes to distract us from our lives.
Speaking of which, did you know James Gandolfini would stay up all night before breakfast scenes in The Sopranos to make himself look tired?
Top Audiobooks for Men in 2021
I’ve broken our list of 50 down to five categories (10 books per category): Classic Fiction, Nonfiction, Self-improvement, Autobiographies & Biographies, and Entertainment & Humor.
Let’s dive in.
Classic Fiction
To Kill a Mockingbird
A staple of literature and one you may be familiar with from your school days. It demonstrates the impacts of racism in the deep south in the 1930s through the eyes of a young girl and her lawyer father.
Atticus Finch’s defense of Tom Robinson, a black man who has been accused of raping a white woman, offers lessons in empathy, understanding and the importance of fighting against injustice.
Narrated by actor Sissy Spacek.
The Great Gatsby
Another one your English teacher probably made you read in school. Focused on a mysterious and extremely rich gentleman named Jay Gatsby during the Roaring ‘20s, he goes to great lengths to court the woman he loves.
Narrated by actor Jake Gyllenhaal.
When I heard that you can calibrate these earbuds to your own hearing, I knew I had to give them a try. In under 3 minutes, the app literally tunes the NS1100s so they sounds good to you personally. While the ANC isn't remarkable, they fit very well due to the six size options and sound fantastic for the price.
War and Peace
War and Peace is often considered the greatest novel ever written. Coming in at 361 chapters and approximately 1,500 pages, this one might make you grateful for audiobooks.
The novel tells the story of Russia’s wars with Napoleon, including his failed invasion of the country in 1812. Through nearly 600 different characters, author Leo Tolstoy depicts the infinite possibilities of human life.
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Another school favorite. This time from the legendary Mark Twain, who’ll make another appearance on this list.
A tale of adventure and friendship. And, like To Kill a Mockingbird, it includes important themes on the subject of race relations. It’ll also educate you on the values of integrity, loyalty and more.
Performed by actor Elijah Wood.
Moby Dick
Adventure. Violence. Revenge. Eccentric characters. A giant sperm whale. This American literature classic has it all. And it’s all based on a true story.
From its famous opening line through to the end, Moby Dick will keep you entertained and teach you valuable lessons on leadership.
Invisible Man
The story, written by Ralph Ellison, of a young, college-educated black man trying to survive in a world that makes him feel invisible.
If you’ve ever felt marginalized in your life, for any reason, you’ll want to check this one out.
The Grapes of Wrath
The Joads leave their old life in Oklahoma in search of new opportunities in California. The trip doesn’t go as planned, and they’re forced to adapt.
The story is an examination of the differences between the haves and the have nots. And it shows how being generous can make a big difference in the lives of those you help.
Frankenstein
Man vs. Monster. A university student tries to bring a dead body back to life. Ego, pride and, ultimately, chaos ensue.
You’ve probably watched the movies and maybe you’ve read the book. Now try out the audiobook and let your imagination provide the illustration.
Narrated by actor Dan Stevens.
Dracula
![Dracula [Audible Edition]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ef+s6y42L.jpg "50 Best Audiobooks for Men in 2022: Listen, Learn, and Move 12")
Like Frankenstein, another familiar haunting tale. Back when vampires were still cool, you know, before the Twilight days.
First published in 1897, Dracula includes details that are often left out of the movies. So you may experience some new twists on this classic tale.
Performed by actors Alan Cumming, Tim Curry and others.
Treasure Island
We’ve had monsters, we’ve had vampires, now it’s time for pirates. It’s a story for all of us who’ve sought our own treasures in one form or another.
It’s a coming-of-age tale about growing into moral adulthood—as every man must eventually do. And it’ll remind you to be careful who you trust.
Nonfiction
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
If you’re curious about why you’re the way you are, Sapiens will offer some insight. Author Yuval Noah Harari also explores where our continued evolution may take us in the future.
The Art of War
The Art of War may be old—like 6th Century old—but a lot of its principles still apply today.
Despite its focus on the battlefield, the arenas of politics, human psychology and corporate strategy still use lessons from this book today. Lessons you and I can benefit from too. Like the importance of choosing your battles and how success breeds more success.
Performed by actor Aidan Gillen.
Outliers: The Story of Success
In Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell asks and attempts to answer the question: “What makes high achievers different?” What he finds in his research just might help you achieve more too.
Narrated by Malcolm Gladwell.
In Cold Blood
But Truman Capote did exactly that in In Cold Blood. Capote tells the story of two men who were convicted of killing a family of four in Kansas in 1959. And he does it in the killers’ words, through unprecedented access and exclusive interviews.
A Short History of Nearly Everything
Author Bill Bryson picks the brains of archaeologists, anthropologists and mathematicians to understand more about the world around us.
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption
Author Laura Hillenbrand tells the story of a U.S. Army Air Forces bombardier and his attempt to survive after his bomber crashed into the Pacific Ocean.
Read by actor Edward Herrmann.
Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of The Mount Everest Disaster
This is a must-listen if you’re looking to challenge yourself and push your own physical and mental limits.
Freakonomics
The book takes unfamiliar angles on a variety of familiar topics, such as crime, sports and child-rearing.
Narrated by co-author Stephen J. Dubner.
Tuesdays with Morrie
Morrie, Albom’s former college professor, shares wisdom that all men should take to heart.
Narrated by Albom.
Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman’s Search for Everything Across Italy, India, and Indonesia
Don’t let the title fool you. Eat, Pray, Love has valuable lessons for men and women.
Author Elizabeth Gilbert, who used to write about men for GQ, said she was trying to answer some fundamental questions in the book that we can all relate to: “Who Am I? Why am I here?”
Narrated by Elizabeth Gilbert.
Self-improvement
Man’s Search for Meaning
The first part of the book is Frankl’s account of the concentration camps. The second part focuses on his life’s work, logotherapy. It’s the notion that the primary motivator in a person’s life is to find meaning. If you listen to this one and aren’t moved, please check your pulse.
Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway: Dynamic Techniques for Turning Fear, Indecision, and Anger into Power, Action, and Love
Feel the Fear encourages you to be courageous, believe in yourself and take action, even when you’re consumed with fear. Regardless of what happens, you will adapt and become stronger.
Narrated by author Susan Jeffers, Ph.D.
How to Win Friends & Influence People
Dale Carnegie’s classic has been helping people achieve success in their personal and professional lives since the 1930s.
The book’s advice includes how to make people like you, win them over to your way of thinking and how to change them without making them resent you. Good stuff.
The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness
After following his “baby steps,” I paid off more than $60,000 and became debt free in less than four years.
Narrated by Dave Ramsey.
How to Stop Feeling so Damn Depressed: The No BS Guide for Men
In How to Stop Feeling so Damn Depressed, psychologist Jonas Horwitz shares strategies on how to identify and manage your depression once and for all.
Unf*ck Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life
If you relate to Lamott like I do, then Unf*ck Yourself is for you. Author Gary John Bishop will help you overcome your self-imposed limitations and guide you toward personal empowerment.
Narrated by John Bishop.
You are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life
I’ve been guilty of doubting my greatness at times, and I bet you have too. You are a Badass teaches you how to correct your self-sabotaging beliefs, create a life you love and make money
If you have unwavering self-confidence, you can skip this one. If not, give it a listen.
Narrated by author Jen Sincero.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change
Stephen Covey’s top seller gives you exactly what it promises in the title and more.
Follow the seven habits and you’ll be amazed at the progress you make toward your goals. Both personally and professionally.
Narrated by Stephen Covey.
Think and Grow Rich
I wish I could tell you this book involves an easy two-step process: 1) Think. 2) Grow Rich. But it turns out, it’s a little more complicated than that.
Nonetheless, Napoleon Hill’s “13 Steps to Riches” were inspired by industrialist Andrew Carnegie. And he knew a thing or two about being rich.
The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment
One of Oprah’s favorites, author Eckhart Tolle invites you to leave your ego behind in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. He encourages you to be present, rather than consumed by past mistakes or fears of the future.
Your mind often works against you. The Power of Now can help free us from the trappings of your own making.
Narrated by Eckhart Tolle.
Autobiographies & Biographies
Steve Jobs
Personally, I’ve always been fascinated by Steve Jobs. He wasn’t the nicest guy, but he was one of the great creative (and marketing) minds of our time.
Master biographer Walter Isaacson tells an in-depth story of a complex character. His notorious “reality distortion field” was responsible for many of Apple’s most iconic inventions.
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood
Born a Crime is Trevor Noah’s story of growing up during apartheid in South Africa. His stories range from hilarious to dramatic.
The twists and turns along the way help you get to know the man who would become the host of The Daily Show.
Narrated by Trevor Noah.
Know My Name: A Memoir
In 2015, Chanel Miller was sexually assaulted by Stanford University student Brock Turner. This is Miller’s story.
By sharing her words, Miller requires us to think critically about sexual assault and our treatment of its victims and perpetrators. In doing so, she serves as an inspiration for all.
Narrated by Chanel Miller.
An Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth
Mahatma Gandhi, the great soul, shares his outlook on life, which we could all learn a few things from. In The Story of My Experiments with Truth, Gandhi highlights the experiments that lead to his advocacy for nonviolent resistance.
HarperCollins Publishers once listed the book as one of the “100 Most Important Spiritual Books of the Twentieth Century.”
Life
It’s no stretch to say that Keith Richards has seen and done some things during his time. The iconic Rolling Stones frontman, rock ‘n’ roll to his core, provides an honest account of his life in his autobiography, aptly named Life.
Now in his late 70s, his story is one you and I couldn’t even imagine.
Narrated by actor Johnny Depp and singer and songwriter Joe Hurley.
Let Love Have the Last Word
Grammy Awards. Academy Awards. The Golden Globes. Musician, actor and activist Common has won them all. And now he’s telling his story.
He reminds us of the power of love and even shares some of his music that was exclusively written and performed for the audiobook.
Narrated by Common.
Autobiography of Mark Twain, Vol. 3
“Never put off till tomorrow, what you can do the day after tomorrow.” – Mark Twain
Somehow, Twain’s snarky and witty one-liners are still as funny today as they were in his day. For more pro-procrastination thoughts and other brilliant musings, check out the third volume of his autobiography.
Long Walk to Freedom: The Autobiography of Nelson Mandela
Every now and then I hear the life story of a person that makes my life feel inadequate. Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest political and people leaders of all time, is on that list.
In Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela shares his remarkable story, from the challenges and setbacks to the eventual triumph and freedom.
Narrated by actor Michael Boatman.
How to Talk Dirty and Influence People: An Autobiography
In a lot of ways, Lenny Bruce changed the game for comedians. His crude style was ahead of its time.
Bruce died young, at the age of 40, but his words live on today through How to Talk Dirty and Influence People.
Einstein: His Life and Universe
Another one from renowned biographer Walter Isaacson. This time he explores the mind of Albert Einstein, who, I’m told, was pretty smart.
Will learning about this popular genius make you smarter? I don’t know, but it’s worth a shot.
Narrated by actor Edward Herrmann.
Entertainment & Humor
Born Standing Up: A Comic’s Life
“I believe in equality. Equality for everybody. No matter how stupid they are or how superior I am to them..” – Steve Martin
Martin is a comedy legend and one of the funniest men alive. In Born Standing Up, he discusses his rise to the top of the comedy world. Learn more about the trials and tribulations of this wild and crazy guy through his own words.
Narrated by Steve Martin.
Our Dumb World
The Onion has been making people laugh with its satirical articles since it was founded in 1988. Our Dumb World takes a look at the nations of the world and offers you the data you never knew you wanted.
The number of prop comedians per 1,000 live birds, the level of Bono activity and the yearly income in wide-screen televisions are just a few of the facts you’ll learn about each country.
I Am America (And So Can You!)
Speaking of satirists, Stephen Colbert calls this book “a simple audiobook from a simple mind.” The funnyman is known today as the host of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
But this book came out a little over a decade ago, when he was manning The Colbert Report on Comedy Central. And he shares his thoughts in his unique way.
Narrated (and shouted) by Stephen Colbert.
Me Talk Pretty One Day
David Sedaris has built a career that is the envy of many writers, most notably me. He gets paid, handsomely, to write about his life in a humorous way.
In Me Talk Pretty One Day, he shares various musings, ranging from his unusual, high-pitch voice to his new life after moving to France.
Narrated by David Sedaris.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Harry Potter has become a modern-day literature classic. You may have already read the books or seen the movies, but chances are it’s been a while.
Reintroduce yourself to the magical world of Harry and his friends by taking in the stories via audiobook. Start here with the first book and continue through the whole series.
The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale book came out in 1985, but, like me, you probably weren’t aware of the story until it was adapted as a Hulu original series.
Judging by the popularity of the show, its tale of power, gender and religion in a dystopian world is bound to keep your interest.
Narrated by actor Claire Daines.
The Martian
Another book that was adapted for the screen, The Martian is a fictional story about an American astronaut’s trip to Mars. After his crew is forced to evacuate, he finds himself all alone on the Red Planet.
What happens next? Will he survive? Listen and find out.
Narrated by actor Will Wheaton.
Napalm & Silly Putty
Like Steve Martin, George Carlin is a comedy legend—though their styles are quite different. The late Carlin was known as a counterculture comedian who wasn’t afraid to touch on taboo subjects.
He put together a selection of his famous musings and observations in this gem. If you want to learn how to be a charming jerk, let Carlin show you the way.
Narrated by George Carlin.
Ready Player One
Another book turned into a movie, Ready Player One is a science fiction novel that is set in a dystopia in 2044. Protagonist Wade Watts finds himself in the middle of a worldwide video game.
A novel, a love story, an opera, all in one, Ready Player One should keep you entertained for hours.
Narrated by actor Will Wheaton.
Sh*t My Dad Says
Sh*t My Dad Says began as a Twitter feed by Justin Halpern, a comedy writer, who wanted to share his father’s hilarious quips. The tweets were a hit and soon Halpern landed himself a book deal.
The book includes a collection of some of his dad’s best quotes.
Which One Will You Devour First?
The audiobooks on this list will have you thinking, laughing, questioning and sharing your newfound insights with your friends.
The result? You’re likely to become far more interesting.
Fire up these books during your commute to work, while you’re doing yard work or anywhere else you want to lose yourself in a story.
And remember to kick off your journey with an Audible Plus subscription (read our in-depth Audible review here) to save money as you dive into your new habit:
Start with a free 30-day trial of our go-to audiobook service, Audible Plus. It's a listen all you want plan with access to audiobooks, audible originals, and podcasts.
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