Milwaukee Novelist Rebecca Anne Nguyen Receives Audie Award Nomination for Audiobook

Celebrated Recognition for Rebecca Anne Nguyen's Audiobook

Milwaukee’s own Rebecca Anne Nguyen, a rising star in contemporary literature, has achieved remarkable recognition in the audiobook industry with her nomination for the prestigious Audie Award. This accolade is a testament to her work, particularly for her audiobook titled The 23rd Hero. The narrative centers around a brave woman embarking on a journey through time to confront and alter the devastating effects of climate change, showcasing Nguyen's commitment to relevant societal issues through her storytelling.

As a finalist in the Narration By The Author category, Nguyen finds herself in esteemed company, competing against legendary figures such as Whoopi Goldberg and Salman Rushdie. This notable achievement exemplifies the award's significance in the audiobook realm, often referred to as the Oscars of audiobooks, showcasing the exceptional talent and artistry within this medium.

Nguyen's journey as a narrator is particularly captivating; she adeptly performs over 30 characters in various accents, including French and Swedish. Initially, she had not intended to narrate her own work. However, as she developed the characters, she recognized the potential of encapsulating their essence through her own voice, allowing for a more organic expression of the diverse range of narratives within her work. The 23rd Hero features characters from an array of backgrounds, such as France, Mongolia, and Australia, enhancing the storytelling experience.

Reflecting on the challenges of interpreting her characters, Nguyen recalls the collaborative effort she undertook with New York City dialect coach Erik Singer. Known for his guidance to talents like Austin Butler, Singer proved instrumental in helping Nguyen create distinct voices that resonated well with the intended accents and dialects, even tackling intricate nuances such as the recreation of a 16th-century French accent. “Erik is a miracle worker,” Nguyen stated, emphasizing the critical role he played in her preparation for this undertaking.

The audiobook was meticulously recorded at Independent Studios in Milwaukee, with sound design executed by Steve Kultgen, further enriching the listening experience for audiences. The excitement surrounding the Audies will culminate in a gala event set to occur in New York City on March 4, 2025, where the winners will be announced.

In addition to this prestigious nomination, Rebecca Anne Nguyen has won the Reader's Choice Award for Best Adult Book (Bronze) for The 23rd Hero, further establishing her presence in the literary landscape. Her debut novel has even been celebrated as a #1 bestseller on Amazon and praised by Pulitzer finalist Susan Choi for its engaging narrative.

Nguyen's writing has also graced the pages of esteemed publications including The New York Times, Insider, and Slackjaw, making her a prominent figure worth watching in both literature and performance arts. As she prepares for the upcoming Audie Awards, the literary community eagerly anticipates the expansion of her impact on readers and listeners alike, marking the beginning of what promises to be an illustrious career.

Rebecca Anne Nguyen’s triumph is not just a reflection of her personal achievements but a beacon of inspiration for writers and narrators everywhere, demonstrating the power of storytelling and its ability to connect, engage, and challenge societal norms.