The Christmas Stone Audio

I get such a thrill from experiencing something for the very first time. Today didn't disappoint as I was invited to the studio of Mr. Kenny Hodges to record the audio version of "The Christmas Stone."

His studio is a first-class facility and creates the perfect environment to record audio books. Many of his completed projects are on display, including multiple bestselling titles. He has converted a small closet into the recording studio complete with microphone, headset, lamp, desk and a single chair for the voice talent to read through books. While the reader works their way through the manuscript, Kenny sits at his computer in another room capturing the audio and making editing marks on a second copy of the text.

I confess I was a little nervous as I began the recording process. All of a sudden I had to watch my pacing, enunciate clearly, use inflection and most importantly, not mis-read the words. The most challenging aspect for me was focusing on all the things I just listed as well maintain good energy and enthusiasm as I read through. My biggest fear was that I would interrupt recording by laughing out loud at a part that struck me as funny--fortunately, it never happened.

The recording process took about three hours, but I'm sure the edited recording will be worked down to two hours or so. Kenny was very reassuring, offered solid feedback and overall constructed a great product, I'm excited for you all to hear it when it comes out this September!