If you’re a self-publisher and you’ve only been publishing ebooks and print books, you’re making a huge mistake! Millions of book lovers now prefer audio listening over reading, and if this is the case, that means that many readers are passing over your book in favor of one available to them in audiobook format. 

In this article, you will get an overview of current audiobook trends, and why you can’t afford to miss out on being a part of this growing market. 

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According to market research, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of audiobooks. Based on an Edison Research survey, the number of audiobooks read by consumers has surged from 6.8 to 8.1 from 2019 to 2020. That is a whopping 19.1% increase in just one year! 

The APA audiobook industry sales survey key points for the years between 2016 and 2020 reveal how significantly audiobook sales have grown. Even though the growth rate has reduced slightly in recent years after surging to a high growth rate of 34.7% in 2018, the trend suggests that audiobooks continue to be a sensation among book lovers. 

As far as formats are concerned, more and more people (over 95%) are leaning towards digitals formats of books. And consistently, over 90% of audiobook listeners are adults, so keep this in mind when thinking about which kinds of books to include in audiobook format. It may be less worth your while to publish a children’s audiobook, over one targetted towards adult readers.

In terms of competition, the numbers of audiobook titles published annually have been drastically shooting up. 2,667 audiobooks were published in 2005. The numbers roughly doubled every five years to 6,200 in 2010, 35,944 in 2015, and 71,502 in 2020. But, there are still way more self-publishers only publishing print books and e-books, than audiobooks. The competition in the audiobook niche is much less steep, than the other aforementioned book formats.

This is not to say that the market for print books and ebooks is dead, but both of these niches are much more saturated.

Why Are Audiobooks So Attractive To Readers?

From educational to entertaining - audiobooks have a lot to offer. First of all, audiobooks ensure an immersive experience irrespective of where you are. Readers do not need to find a quiet corner or leisure time to enjoy the content of a book - thanks to this particular format, they can be driving, jogging, taking public transportation, or trying to fall asleep, and still enjoy audiobooks. 

Moreover, listening is much faster than reading. So, listening to an audio version of a book can actually save time. Credits to the fact that book lovers can listen to audiobooks whenever they want, they will also be able to finish it much quicker than reading a traditional book. In fact, one of the most cherished features of audiobooks is that the reader knows exactly how long it will take. 

Audiobooks offer a great way to reap the contents of a book without tiring the eyes or hands. Listeners can just plug in earphones and allow the narrator to do all the hard work.

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Reasons to Publish Audiobooks - Benefits for Writers

One of the main reasons you should be publishing your books in audiobook format, as well as paperback and e-book, is that if you don’t, you are leaving money on the table. There is no doubt that audiobooks are in high demand now and the numbers are increasing every day. 

Audiobooks offer convenience. This means, your audiobook may attract a new range of readers who may otherwise avoid reading your book. It is a smart business decision to react to this demand and add to the digital book market. After all, it’s a good source of income. 

If that is not enough reason to put together an audiobook, you will also have more control over the impact your book will have on the listener. Unlike traditional books, you can convey the right tone and avoid any misinterpretations from the reader’s end. A professional narrator (coupled with your unique writing style) can really give new life to your content. 

Best Genres for Audiobooks

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Based on trends, there is a market for both fiction and nonfiction audiobooks. You can select either one but spend some time when choosing a subcategory. According to APA, Suspense, Thrillers, and Mysteries is a very popular genre under the fiction category. After all, who wouldn’t enjoy listening to intense and descriptive scenes from books like Gone Girl, You, or The Da Vinci Code? Science-fiction is another category worthy of consideration. 

Most-loved nonfiction audiobooks often include biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs. From ‘Becoming’ by Michelle Obama to ‘Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World’ by Jack Weatherford, readers just love delving into this genre of books. Want to consider other topics? Self-help and humor are also well-loved nonfiction genres worth exploring. 

The Bottom Line

Based on data from the past few years, there is no denying that audiobooks are trending and the market will continue to expand. So, what are you waiting for? Start writing your first audiobook and reap the benefits of this unique storytelling tool, the market is wide open and waiting for you.