Queen Camilla: Comics & Audiobooks Count Too!

Queen Camilla recently appeared in the iconic Beano comic to promote reading, highlighting that comics and audiobooks are valid forms of engaging with stories. Her remarks coincide with a substantial growth in the audiobook market; UK publishers saw their revenue from audiobooks increase by nearly a third during the 2023-24 period.

The publishing industry now recognizes audiobooks as a crucial component of its strategy. Experts emphasize that reading is defined by content, not the medium, suggesting a necessary reframing of what it means to be a reader. This inclusive approach benefits individuals with visual impairments, dyslexia, or time constraints.

Research indicates that audiobooks can serve as an entry point to reading for many, with more men than women listening weekly. Furthermore, studies show that listening to audiobooks is as effective as print for developing comprehension and vocabulary. A significant 37.5% of children and young people report that audiobooks have motivated them to engage in more traditional reading.

Platforms like Spotify and Audible are expanding their audiobook offerings, and some authors are now releasing works exclusively in audio format. This shift reflects the medium's increasing importance, with publishers now considering audio alongside print and e-books from the outset of book production.