The Audio Publishers Association has created a hall of fame for “the most accomplished narrators and pioneers in audiobook history,” naming five voice actors to its inaugural class.
The hall of fame, the APA says, “honors the most accomplished narrators and pioneers in audiobook history” and “recognizes those whose exceptional work has shaped the art of narration, expanded the reach of audiobooks, and helped propel the industry forward.”
George Guidall was named an honoree; he is known for narrating books including Mr. Sammler’s Planet by Saul Bellow, Stephen Harrigan’s Big Wonderful Thing, and Craig Johnson’s Longmire series of novels. Hillary Huber, who has narrated books such as Claire Luchette’s Agatha of Little Neon, Thisbe Nissen’s Our Lady of the Prairie, and Lisa Gardner’s One Step Too Far, was also named to the hall of fame.
January LaVoy, who has lent her voice to books including Lauren Groff’s The Vaster Wilds, Charmaine Wilkerson’s Good Dirt, and Kelly Link’s The Book of Love, was honored with a spot in the hall of fame, alongside Robin Miles (N.K. Jemisin’s The World We Make, Margaret Wilkerson Sexton’s On the Rooftop) and Simon Vance (Katherine Rundell’s Super-Infinite, V.S. Naipaul’s A Way in the World).
Dan Zitt, chair of the APA’s hall of fame committee, said in a statement, “The APA Hall of Fame reflects our Board’s commitment to honoring the narrators and leaders whose artistry, dedication, and vision shaped modern audiobook publishing. Their work didn’t simply interpret stories—it helped build and elevate an entire industry. By establishing this Hall of Fame, we celebrate their enduring legacy and affirm the importance of recognizing those who laid the foundation for the vibrant community we are today.”
The hall of fame honorees will be inducted at the 31st annual Audie Awards next Monday in New York City.
Michael Schaub is a contributing writer.
