Comfort Listens

The titles listeners are returning to over and over again

We gathered up the titles that bring comfort to listeners and editors alike, from biographies and memoirs that listeners return to over and over again, to titles that are heartwarming, uplifting, and nostalgic. We hope that you'll find comfort and maybe your next favourite below.

—Tori, Audible Editor

Editors' Favourites

Without winter, there is no spring

This beautiful collection of essays rotates around a central theme of "wintering", the idea of giving oneself periods of rest and retreat during tough times (not unlike the cycle of trees that shed and regrow leaves) in order to be able to "blossom" in a future springtime in one’s life. I listened to Wintering during a particularly dreary week of winter last year, so it felt especially impactful for me, but I’m quite sure its central message and philosophy will ring true no matter the temperature outside. This is for anyone who grapples with the concept that we must always strive to be positive and resilient—sometimes it’s okay to quasi-hibernate and sit with life’s struggles, in order to better bounce back when the metaphorical ice is melting.

Sarah

Audible Editor

When you’re feeling down

The name suits this book perfectly :). When you’re having a rough night, or day, and you listen to at least a couple of minutes of this book a day it will really change your perspective, and give you that little bit of hope we all need each day! Matt Haig is amazing, and I love that he’s the one that walks us through these little anecdotes, recipes, and stories to get us through those rainy days.

Mayra

Audible Listener

Like a Cup of Hot Tea

I've expounded on my love for this listen many times, and I can't help myself, I have to suggest it yet again for a few reasons. It's got the familiar story of the hard-on-his luck Charlie Bucket whose dreams come true when he gets to visit the chocolate factory he's admired his whole life. It's a quick listen at just over three hours, perfect for sharing with the ones you love on a smart speaker for family night. The main reason why I return to this one is the narrator, Douglas Hodge. He has one of the coziest, warmest, kindest voices I've ever heard narrate an audiobook, and I often let out a big sigh once he starts speaking. If you feel like slipping on fuzzy slippers and sipping a cup of tea, just hit play and sit back.

Tori

Audible Editor

Improve the Present and the Future will be Better

This classic inspirational tale is brought to an even higher level in the audiobook version with Jeremy Irons' multi-faceted narration. It’s a simple enough story of a shepherd boy who leaves his homeland of Spain and travels to Egypt in search of treasure buried in the Pyramids. The boy meets a number of people and learns life lessons while on this journey which are relatable to people of all ages. The story has so much depth and there are many little nuggets of wisdom such as "It’s the possibility of a dream coming true that makes life so interesting" and "everyone seems to have a clear idea of how others should lead their lives, but none about his or her own" that stick even after the book is finished. This listen really does make you reflect on life and think about what’s important. What more could you want in a 4 hour story?