As the voice of blockbuster sci-fi/fantasy audiobooks like The Three-Body Problem, Hounded, and Ascend Online, beloved narrator Luke Daniels is adept at carrying us off to new worlds. But nothing in his impressive background prepared us for the transformative power of his authorial debut, Unspoken, which is firmly grounded in one of the most defining real-life experiences anyone can face: grief.
Reflecting on the devastating loss of his 21-month-old son in 2016, Daniels infuses Unspoken with hard-won wisdom, love, humor, and hope. If that sounds like an impossible feat, Daniels was comforted in knowing he wasn't alone, and turned to the words and experiences of others who had walked this path for solace.
“Having the writings of C.S. Lewis, Joan Didion, and Alison Espach narrated to me by these vocal heavyweights was a gift that kept on giving,” Daniels says. “Their insight and wisdom offered me comfort and confirmation.”
In selecting these recommendations, Daniels says the connecting thread was how seen they made him feel in his own journey: “I chose these audiobooks because they reflect many of my own struggles with grief. I hope these choices can help other listeners talk about their grief and find some measure of peace.”
''Ralph Cosham’s narration is as crystal clear as C.S. Lewis’s imagery. I found myself nodding along, chuckling; completely wrapped up in the loving embrace of two master storytellers. Lewis dissects his grief with relatable commentary, humble wisdom, and profound insight. A must-listen.''
''Vanessa Redgrave lends her historic and infinite talent to this true story of love and loss by Joan Didion. Redgrave’s warm tones carried me through the twists and turns of Didion’s memoir on sickness and grief. Herein lies humor, hope, tragedy, and magical thinking. Entirely relatable and supremely engaging, this story elevates the listener with its message.''
''Alison Espach’s writing immediately drew me in with its subtlety and wit. Her ability to take something mundane and explode it into the unexpected had me hanging onto my headphones so I didn’t miss a word. The narrators’ performances were genuine and raw, with all the necessary gravity and lightness that this inspired story deserves. Do yourself a favor and have a listen.''
All selections above are included for members as part of the Audible Plus catalog.
