Hi, my name is Don Huck and with my wife Ceres, we own and operate Talking Books Plus - " Your Audio Book Authority". We are a specialty bookstore that deals exclusively with Books on CD and Tape. The store as been at the same location at 3355 S. Wadsworth Blvd, one block North of Hampden Ave in Lakewood since 1999. At the store you can rent, buy or trade audio books. We carry over 15,000 Audio Books in stock.

Now with almost eight years of experience we have been asked hundreds of questions about audio books. I picked out a few that relate to one of the most asked questions about Audio Books -What's the difference between books that are Abridged and Unabridged?

Here then is "Everything You Wanted To Know About the format of Audio Books, But Were Afraid To Ask!".

1. What's the difference between Abridged and Unabridged Audio Books?

Unabridged audio books are produced word for word from the printed book. Abridged audio books are the edited version of the book; some condensed more than others.

2. Who makes the decision of which books are produced as Abridged or Unabridged?

The decision as to how the book is produced and in which format is made by the book publisher.

3. How can I find out if a book is Unabridged or Abridged?

The book publishers clearly state on the front of each box if the book is UNABRIDGED in big letters. If the book is Abridged it is stated on the backside of the box (or sometimes on the bottom of the box). There will be a notation on the box as either "Abridged" or "Abridgement Approved by Author".

4. Do you miss much of the story listening to an Abridged book?

Books that are Abridged are edited from the original text to provide the listener with the most important details of the book and to make sure the story or information flows evenly.

5. Are all books produced as both Abridged and Unabridged?

Most audio books are produced in either Abridged or Unabridged format. In some instances you might find a popular author has a book produced in both formats but this is rare.

6. Does Talking Books Plus carry both Abridged and Unabridged books?

We have found that 90 percent of our customers prefer the Unabridged edition. If we have a choice we will always carry the Unabridged edition rather than the Abridged.

That's it for now! Got more questions for us? Stop by the store, we love talking about Books on CD and Tape. We are open Monday through Friday 9am-7pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. You can also check out our web site at ComeHearBooks.com.You can always call usat 303 969 8848.