If you’re looking for some books to expand your understanding of the voiceover industry, we’ve got 10 VO book recommendations for you here.
Voiceover books are tough because the industry changes so quickly. There are a ton of books out there but a lot are outdated. I’ve divided these up into VO PERFORMANCE and VO BUSINESS books. The last three books aren’t specifically VO-focused books but do relate to our industry (and have helped me tremendously).
VO PERFORMANCE BOOKS
Zen and the Art of Voiceover
By: Dan Friedman
“Zen and the Art of Voiceover” offers practical tools to help voice actors connect with any script, build confidence, and communicate more effectively across all genres. It’s your guide to becoming a more connected, confident, and compelling communicator.
Dan is our HOME STUDIO consultant and his first book is actually called “Sound Advice: Voiceover from an Audio Engineer’s Perspective.”
Voiceover Narration: Creating Performances from the Inside Out
By Dian Perry
“Voiceover Narration” explores what makes a great narrator by diving into the mental, physical, and emotional dynamics of voiceover performance. Covering genres from audiobooks to e-learning, voice actor and teacher Dian Perry shares practical insights, humor, and personal stories—plus graphics, worksheets, and scripts to help voice actors at any level deliver more intuitive, impactful reads.
Voice Over 101: How to Succeed as a Voice Actor
By Debi Derryberry
Industry veteran Debi Derryberry shares everything you need to know about voice over —from mic technique and sound effects to demo reels, studio tips, and the business side of VO. Packed with insider advice for beginners and pros alike, this comprehensive guide also includes access to a video library where you can learn Debi’s tricks firsthand.
VO BUSINESS BOOKS
Instincts of a Talent Agent: Entrepreneurial Takeaways from an Industry Insider
By: Marc Guss
“Instincts of a Talent Agent” is a bold, no-nonsense guide to thriving in the entertainment industry—on camera, behind it, creatively or commercially. Veteran agent and manager Marc Guss offers the insider truths no one else will, blending industry savvy with an entrepreneur’s mindset.
Heidi’s note: Marc is co-founder of ACM, a VO management company that represents myself and Mike. He’s been in the business for years and this book is fun for his stories alone.
Voice Over Legal
By: Robert Sciglimpaglia
“Voice Over LEGAL” is the essential guide for voice actors navigating the business and legal side of the industry. With 100+ pages covering contracts, getting paid, working with agents, taxes, insurance, unions, copyrights, and more, it helps you avoid costly mistakes. Written by voice actor and attorney Robert Sciglimpaglia Jr., this book prepares you for the issues of today—and tomorrow.
Heidi’s note: Robert shared his legal advice on the Atlanta Voiceover Studio & ProVoiceoverTraining.com podcast HERE.
Voiceover Achiever: Brand Your VO Career. Change Your Life.
By Celia Siegel
“Voiceover Achiever” is your guide to building a personal brand that you love—and that attracts your ideal clients. Voiceover branding expert unveils the proven steps and secrets used to help voice actors stand out and thrive. If you’re ready to show up powerfully, grow your career, and change your life, this audiobook is for you.
Voice Over Secrets: 22 Successful Voice Actors & Voice Over Artists Share Their Best Experience – Based Tips
By Elroy “Spoonface” Powell
Twenty-two professionals give their best insights on the voice over industry. Bypass years of trial and error and learn from those that have been where you want to be.
NON-VO but GREAT BOOKS
Atomic Habits
By James Clear
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear offers a proven, practical system for building good habits, breaking bad ones, and mastering the small changes that lead to big results. Backed by science and real-world stories, this bestselling guide shows how to reshape your environment, boost motivation, and make lasting progress—one tiny habit at a time.
Heidi’s Note: If you’ve gone from a corporate job to voice actor, you’ll soon realize time and business management is hard. This book gives the most practical, clear advice on how to create a routine that will last. His email newsletter is one of my faves, too.
Build for Tomorrow
By Jason Feifer
“Build for Tomorrow” is a guide to navigating change with less fear and more confidence. Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur, breaks down the four phases of change—panic, adaptation, a new normal, and transformation—and shows how to move through them faster. With insights from top changemakers and lessons from history, this book helps you embrace uncertainty, unlock opportunity, and shape your future on your own terms.
Heidi’s Note: If you’re nervous about AI, THIS book is for you! It will help you navigate whatever comes our way in that arena with less nerves.
Building a Story Brand
By Donald Miller
In Building a StoryBrand, Miller shares seven universal story elements that help businesses cut through the noise, connect with customers, and boost sales. Whether you’re a CEO, small business owner, or creative professional, this book will transform how you talk about your brand—online, in print, and in person—so people finally understand what you offer and why it matters.
Heidi’s Note: This book helped change my view on branding and marketing. Aren’t we, as voice actors, storytellers? Tell a story with your branding.
What’s YOUR favorite VO or business book?
