The 10 best WWII audiobooks for every history buff

In the midst of a war that uncovered the deepest evils of mankind, two enemy pilots are faced with unfathomable decisions when their aircrafts meet over German territory. While German Ace Franz Stigler could’ve easily destroyed the American aircraft flown by second lieutenant Charlie Brown, what happens next instead changes the course of their lives forever. A Higher Call uncovers an event kept top secret by major government officials for years, enthralling listeners with haunting tales told from multiple perspectives. Narrated by actor Robertson Deans, known for movies like Vanilla Sky and Star Trek Nemesis, A Higher Call captivates listeners like an action movie while highlighting the importance of honor in even the most tragic circumstances.

This historical account chronicles a dangerous journey of rescue, heroism, and valor to save prisoners of war in the Philippines in early 1945. Quickly turning more dangerous than they could’ve ever imagined, the paralyzing fear of the POWs and the soldiers trying to rescue them can be felt with every word. What highlights Ghost Soldiers as a stand-out audiobook is its performance by two-time Tony Award-winner James Naughton, a performer known for breathing life into stories in a variety of mediums throughout his illustrious career. Through his emotional performance, you will join the soldiers on their dangerous mission and understand the perils felt by all in the depths of a dark and unforgiving forest.

History buffs will appreciate this unique perspective on the beginning of WWII, as Winston Churchill spins his tale of Britain's isolation before historic alliances were formed in the early 1940s. Rodska’s narration walks the fine line between performance and impersonation, allowing the listener to feel that they are really listening to Churchill himself telling the story. The story follows his exasperation and perseverance as Britain began to fight the Axis Powers, leading up to and throughout the war as Japan attacked the United States and the Allied Powers began to take shape. Churchill displays his confidence as he relays the story of a united front, outlining the Allies’ ability to take on anything that came their way with a matter-of-fact perspective.

For four days in the summer of 1945, over 900 men were stranded in the middle of the South Pacific after the USS Indianapolis was sunk by an enemy missile. In Harm’s Way follows the story of three of the 317 survivors from this excruciating experience, detailing both how they survived and their quest to discover the truth in the aftermath. Written by journalist Doug Stanton, this harrowing story highlights the importance of listening to survivors amid a massive cover-up. Boyett’s performance elevates this heroic story further, drawing out the suspense and encapsulating the terror felt with every emotional turn of phrase. In Harm’s Way conveys the bravery of those willing to fight for justice after being forced to fight for their lives.

This raw story takes you deep inside the horrors of the Holocaust as Nazis prevented families from leaving the Warsaw ghetto and eventually transported them to concentration camps. After learning of their fate, a social worker named Irena Sendler took their story into her own hands, defying orders by sneaking children out to safety. Sendler’s creativity and gumption helped save the lives of thousands of Jewish children, and her little-known story is one of inspiration in the face of true evil. Author Tilar J. Mazzeo of the New York Times best seller The Widow Clicquot reflects the crazed experience of Sendler through her writing. This listen is further enhanced by the performance of actress Amanda Carlin, known from hit shows like Friends and Law & Order, who adds a new depth to an already emotional and heartbreaking narrative.

One of the most popular historical fiction novels set at the time of WWII, The Book Thief shows the power of small acts of bravery during one of the darkest points in history. This tale follows the riveting life of Liesel Meminger, a foster child who has an affinity for stealing novels, and her belief in the ability of books to change hearts and minds. Told from the unique perspective of Death himself, this audiobook reveals the importance of kindness hidden throughout Nazi-controlled Munich. Jewish actor Allan Corduner brings a Broadway-caliber performance to this listen, making for a stunning entry into the genre’s canon.

An Audible Editor’s Pick, Code Name Verity tells the story of two young women seemingly at odds in all regards forging an unlikely bond during WWII that helps them deal with the tragedies surrounding them. One a pilot and the other an operator, the two women work together and establish a deep trust that is soon tested as the pilot is taken as a prisoner of war. Narrated by Morven Christie and Lucy Gaskell, this historical fiction shimmers with gusto as the performers breathe life into small-town and aristocratic characters alike. This coming-of-age tale is a great reminder of the importance of female bonds against all odds.

Take a firsthand look at the infantry tasked with some of the most dangerous assignments of WWII with Band of Brothers. Historian and renowned writer Stephen E. Ambrose, who profiled many presidents—including Eisenhower and Nixon—tells the true story of these men with astonishing and heart-rending detail. Inspiring an HBO series, multiple films, and various other media adaptations, this story has had a significant impact on how society views the tragic events of World War II. Providing a fresh take on an honored story, this audiobook allows the listener to step in line next to these humble men that continually risked their lives for the good of the world.

Named one of the Best Voices of the Century by AudioFile Magazine, narrator Grover Gardner uses his enthralling voice to tell the story of the Nazi party’s rise to power. A must-listen for inquisitive minds, The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich is one of the most detailed looks at how evil can take over the world. Author, war correspondent, and journalist William L. Shirer knows that in order to avoid repeating history, we must never forget our past. Through detailed analyzation of firsthand accounts, Nazi documents, and various records, Shirier weaves together an intimate non-fiction look at the world’s most dangerous man’s rise to power and the steps that allowed him to commit mass genocide against the Jews.

In this listen, a star-studded list of performers bring about a new listening experience for a story that has captivated the world. With the Old Breed is a firsthand account of E.B. Sledge’s survival in two of the most dangerous battles in the Pacific Ocean. History enthusiasts and veterans alike will appreciate this harrowing dive into one man’s journey into the depths of hell and what it took to escape. If you need another reason to tune in, beloved actor Tom Hanks uses his introduction to express gratitude for all who have come together to tell this important part of our nation's history.