GOOD PEOPLE Named Audible’s Audiobook of the Year 2026
A pretty good day for the audiobook section of the résumé. 🤩
Good People, the debut novel by Afghan American author Patmeena Sabit, has been named Audible’s Audiobook of the Year for 2026. The full-cast production features Ali Nasser among its ensemble of narrators, voicing Imam Inayat Yusuf, a sheikh who comforts the Sharaf family after an unimaginable loss.
It's another exciting milestone for Ali, who's had the opportunity to contribute to several ensemble audiobook productions that have gone on to receive award nominations and industry recognition. But there's something particularly special about being part of a production that earns this kind of distinction.
Published in 2026, Good People follows the Sharaf family, Afghan refugees who've built a life for themselves in Northern Virginia, only to find their world turned upside down by the suspicious death of their eldest daughter, Zorah. Told through the perspectives of neighbors, friends, journalists and investigators, the novel gradually pieces together a complicated portrait of a family, a community and the stories people tell about one another.
Sabit's debut received widespread critical acclaim for its exploration of identity, belonging, community and the complicated nature of truth. The audiobook brings that world to life through a large ensemble of performers, with each voice contributing to the many perspectives that shape the story.
Nasser's role may be one chapter in a much larger production, but it's a contribution he's proud to have made. And being named Audible’s Audiobook of the Year is certainly not a bad addition to the credits. Congratulations to Patmeena Sabit, director Paul Alan Ruben, and the production team at Penguin Random House Audio for this recognition. And a massive congratulations to the entire cast, which also includes (in alphabetical order): Sitara Attaie, Cassandra Campbell, Ramon de Ocampo, Samantha Desz, James Fouhey, Peter Ganim, Matt Godfrey, Graham Halstead, Rebecca Ho, Hillary Huber, Rachel L. Jacobs, David H. Lawrence XVII, Atossa Leoni, Jim Meskimen, Soneela Nankani, Hassan Nazari-Robati, Stephanie Nemeth-Parker, Zadran Wali.
Give Good People a listen. It's available on Audible and other audiobook platforms. And if you're looking for your next listen, this one's worth adding to the queue.