The Rise of Audiobooks: Should You Publish Audio Versions of Your Book?

Should You Undertake Audiobook Publishing?

Imagine opening your phone and discovering a book inside—an eBook! That was yesterday; now, you can even find audiobooks. Choose a book, press a button, and start listening. For the past few centuries, reading was limited to print books. With rapid technological changes over the past four decades, we’ve added two new formats: eBooks and audiobooks. Audiobooks are the new kid on the block and are suddenly catching on. Consider this: revenue in the audiobook market in India is projected to reach US$442.83 million in 2025.*

The Indian Audiobook Boom: Is It Time to Jump Into Audiobook Publishing?

With the rise of digital content consumption, audiobooks have become a favored medium for readers who enjoy literature on the go. Whether while commuting through Delhi’s traffic or unwinding after a long day, audiobooks provide flexibility that traditional print formats often lack.

But should you, as an Indian writer, consider publishing an audiobook version of your book? Let’s explore this growing market, its financial viability, distribution platforms, and narration choices to help you make an informed decision.

Is There a Growing Market for Audiobooks in India?

India’s audiobook publishing industry is witnessing exponential growth, driven by increased smartphone usage, affordable data plans, and a rising preference for audio-based learning. One can sell audiobooks on platforms like Audible, Storytel, and Kuku FM. They have introduced Indian listeners to a variety of books in both English and regional languages. The most popular genres in the Indian audiobook market include self-help, fiction, and non-fiction, while the most widely spoken languages for audiobooks are English, Hindi, and Tamil. For instance, “Mafia Queens of Mumbai” by Jane Borges & S. Hussain Zaidi and “Life’s Amazing Secrets” by Gaur Gopal Das.

In contrast to traditional publishing, audiobooks offer convenience and inclusivity. To sell audiobooks, one can look to cater to audiences who may struggle with reading due to literacy or visual impairments and provide higher engagement. Many Indian publishers, including HarperCollins India, Penguin Random House India, and Zorba Books, are already embracing this trend. As an author, tapping into this space can expand your audience beyond conventional readers.

Unique Insight into Selling Audiobooks:

Regional language audiobook publishing is gaining traction. Writers who publish in Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, or other native tongues can unlock a massive, currently underserved market.

What Are the Costs Involved in Producing an Audiobook?

Unlike print books, producing audiobooks requires specialized audio production, which comes with costs such as:

• – Hiring a narrator (₹2,000–₹10,000 per finished hour)
• – Studio recording or DIY setup (₹5,000–₹20,000)
• – Editing and mastering of the audio output (₹5,000–₹30,000)
• – Distribution fees (vary by platform)

The financial viability of audiobook publishing depends on projected sales for self-published authors. A professionally recorded audiobook enhances credibility, but if budget constraints arise, self-narration and self-editing can be cost-effective alternatives. For example, author Rajiv Saxena self-recorded his audiobook and, with professional guidance, edited it and sought audiobook production services for distribution. “Life’s Amazing Secrets” by Gaur Gopal Das is a self-help book offering wisdom on happiness and success, narrated by the author himself.

Which Platforms Are Best for Distributing Audiobooks in India?

An author’s top concern is how to sell audiobooks. India has various audiobook platforms catering to different audiences, and understanding their pricing models and royalty structures is crucial.

Selecting a platform depends on your target audience and financial goals. Multi-platform publishing can also maximize visibility and sales.

How Do You Choose the Right Narrator? Should You Narrate It Yourself?

Choosing the right narrator for your audiobook is a crucial decision. No matter how good the content, the narrator significantly impacts the book’s success. The voice should suit the book’s genre. A suitable voice for a story or novel can incorporate drama and varying pitches to bring your story to life. A narrator for poetry or self-help should have a gentle, soothing voice. For instance, “The Heartfulness Way” by Kamlesh D. Patel & Joshua Pollock explores meditation and mindfulness and is narrated in a soothing voice that enhances the listening experience. We are all familiar with “Five Point Someone,” which is now widely enjoyed in audiobook format.

Choosing the right narrator is essential for bringing your book to life. A compelling voice enhances the listener’s experience and can determine whether they stay engaged or abandon the audiobook.

Options for creating an audiobook:

1. Hire a professional narrator – Ideal for impeccable quality.
2. Narrate it yourself – Suitable for authors with strong storytelling skills.
3. Use AI-generated voices – Cost-effective but lacks emotional depth.

Pro Tip for creating an audiobook:

If your book is non-fiction, narrating it yourself adds authenticity. For fiction, hiring a seasoned voice actor ensures immersive storytelling.

Final Thought: Should You Publish an Audiobook?

*Taken from Statista

The audiobook market in India is expanding rapidly, driven by evolving digital consumption habits.

Audiobooks provide another avenue to promote book sales and earn higher royalties. They have captured readers’ imaginations. For authors looking to reach the widest possible audience, the audiobook market in India is worth exploring. Consider your budget, target audience, and preferred distribution platforms before taking the leap.

Ready to publish your audiobook? Start today with affordable audiobook production services!

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