However, if you wish to have an audio version of your book, you have to decide if you really have what it takes to narrate it.
Have you ever done voice work? Do you have a pleasant voice? Do you know how to read in a way that adds interest rather than a flat monotone? Narrating a book is much like singing a song. Do you know when to riff and when to stick to the melody? Narration is a form of verbal poetry. It is a skill set.
I highly recommend downloading a few high quality audio books to know what you are aiming for.
If you are determined to proceed, here are tips on the nuts and bolts of creating an audio book.
PRODUCTION
You will need a high quality microphone and recording software installed on your laptop, PC, or tablet and a sound-proof room. No kids yelling in the background, telephone rings, dog barks, or interruptions.
If you feel you have the right voice and sufficient skill, your audio file must meet certain standards to be eligible for upload to services.
Author's Republic specifications.
Audible/ACX specifications.
You must choose mono or stereo, provide opening and closing tracks, have the right decibel ranges, length, and not exceed maximum of 120 minutes or file size of 170 mb. If this is all Greek to you, consider turning it over to the pros.
Still determined? There are people willing to help you go it alone. This is a thorough list of steps from KDP https://robdircks.com/yes-you-can-record-your-own-audiobook-heres-how/.
Here are more tricks and tips:
How to Convert Audiobooks for Use in Itunes
Creating Audiobooks: What Every Author Should Know
Yes, You Can Record Your Own Audio Book
Ultimate Guide to Recording Audio Books
Read Your Own Audio Book
DISTRIBUTION
With the DIY option, you are responsible for making distribution arrangements with the different platforms such as iTunes, Audible, BookBaby etc. The files must be in the correct digital format. You will have to check each site's guidelines. They will ask for either MP3 or .mp3 or Windows Media Audio .wma. For iTunes, you need M4B or .m4b.
There are several smaller companies that help you with distribution.
Author's Republic can help walk you through the process.
Big Happy Family will present your titles to major download sites, work with them to get approval, let you know exactly what materials and formats each site needs — and handle the paperwork, reporting, royalty collection, and payment.
Scribl is a crowd-sharing and crowd-pricing site. If you like to gamble, this is a good way to get discovered.
Scribd is another innovate way to share your work. You first upload your work through Smashwords, INscribe digital, BookBaby, draft2digital, or Publish Drive.
If you managed self-produced audio book success, please share it in the comments section. I would love to feature your story in a future blog post.
Next week, we take a look at writing Master Classes.
