December… the time to give thanks for those things that have sustained us through the past year. For narrators, a huge part of that is YOU, the listening community! As we wind down 2016, we want to give back to you, our listeners, who help make our job so rewarding, and who travel with us on each audiobook journey. SO! Over 60 narrators have partnered to bring you FROM THE HEART – recordings of poetry, essays, stories, excerpts, songs, etc. – throughout the month of December. Each day, beginning this Thursday, 12/1, look for 2-3 new (and free!) audio postings. You’ll hear things from voices you’re familiar with as well as some that are new to your ears, all of whom are so very grateful for your listening love this last year! Hope you’ll join in the fun!
Today I’m pleased to host works by two audiobook narrators (click on the narrator’s name to jump to his/her performance): Mark Bramhall and Karen Commins. Enjoy!
“An Honest Thief” by Fyodor Dostoyevsky and narrated by Mark Bramhall
About the Selection
A deceptively simple tale of self-imposed loneliness, unconscious bonding and human kindness.
About the Narrator
Mark Bramhall has appeared in leading roles Off-Broadway, regionally, and at most Southern California theatrical venues. His acting awards and nominations include LA Drama Critics Circle, Ovation, Dramalogue, Garland, LA Weekly and Robby honors, as well as numerous industry awards for his audiobook narrations. A recipient of the American Library Association’s 2016 Odyssey Award; cited by Publishers’ Weekly and AudioFile Magazine among annual “Best Voices” and/or “Best Audiobooks” from 2010 to the present; Mark was a finalist for the Audiobook Publishers Association’s Audie Award in 2013; and, in 2016, a twice-nominated finalist and first-time Audie winner.
Mark has also taught and directed at the American Academy of Dramatic Art, and coaches privately. His poetry and prose have won grants and residencies from The Ucross Foundation and The Lannan Foundation. He is in his 21st year of marriage to actress/singer/dancer/teacher and best love, Christine Avila. He is the proud father of four daughters who have given him six beautiful grandchildren. More at: markbramhall.com; @mark_bramhall.
“The Christmas Present” by Richmal Crompton narrated by Karen Commins
About the Selection
In this Christmas tale from 1922, Mary learns that the best presents don’t cost a thing.
About the Narrator
A professional voiceover talent since 1999, Atlanta native Karen Commins now works almost exclusively in audiobooks. She has narrated over 50 titles and specializes in performing cozy mysteries and sweet romances. She particularly shines at comedic reads and gives an authentic voice to books set in the South and/or starring Southern characters. Her audiobooks are “A Vacation For Your Ears.” Visit her web site to hear demos, view her titles, and watch a video demonstration of her soundproof studio. When she isn’t narrating, she writes articles about audiobooks for her blog and other sites, curates and maintains information for authors seeking to create audiobooks, and offers helpful advice to narrators in several Facebook groups.
