At the top of the list is the narrator of the Harry Potter books, the incomparable Jim Dale.  He can liven up even the dullest passage. Adults and youth alike will find his narration a treat. Dale also narrates the "Peter" series by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson which starts with "Peter and the Starcatchers," a prequel of sorts to Peter Pan. Also try Dale's animated reading of "Around the World in 80 Days" by Jules Verne.

Some patrons swear they will never read another book by Jonathan Kellerman or Janet Evanovich because listening to them is a much more entertaining experience.  Kellerman's psychologist/detective Alex Delaware comes alive with John Rubenstein behind the mike, and C. J. Critt and Lorelei King bring the characters in the Stephanie Plum series to life. For Kellerman try "Rage," "Gone," and "Obsession." For Evanovich, try anything in unabridged audio format.

Recorded book narrator Johnny Heller is a stand-up comedian. His somewhat nasal slur lends itself very well to teen voices and attitudes, but he also gives a humorous twist to adult books. For kids, try the award-winning "Al Capone Does My Shirts" by Gennifer Choldenko, and for adults, try "Cabin Pressure: One Man's Futile Attempt to Recapture His Youth at Summer Camp" by Josh Wolk. Heller also narrates a couple of Dave Barry books, including "Dave Barry's Complete Book of Guys." I recommend this recording with a caution not to drive and listen, as hysterical laughing from behind the steering wheel can be perilous.

Nothing enhances a reading experience like having a book read with the proper accent.  The English romantic comedy "The Undomestic Goddess" by Sophie Kinsella is narrated with a delightful accent by Rosalyn Landor.

Other excellent narrators include George Guidall, Barbara Rosenblat, and Scott Brick, who read a variety of books.

To locate specific narrators at Salem Public Library, visit the catalog at the library or from home online at www.salemlibrary.org. Entering the narrator's name in the author or keyword field should bring a list of recorded works on which they are featured.