P.J. Ochlan
“P.J. Ochlan – he’s a wonderful actor. And he can do the accents…” -Jodie Foster
DOSSIER: Regarding your process for delivering exceptional quality in your audiobook narration, how many times do you read through the book and how much book/author research do you do before you hit that record button?
OCHLAN: Generally, one prep read to make character choices and gather story and character arcs, plus any needed research (pronunciations, anything established in previous books – characters, world-building aspects – author/publisher questions, etc.).
POV is king
DOSSIER: Although you skillfully craft your narration around your interpretation of each book character, do you have a particular style you save for certain kinds of books or specific authors you work with on a regular basis?
OCHLAN: I’d say the style is driven primarily by the POV(s) and how they feel every step of the way. In other words, I don’t go into a thriller narration with “thriller voice,” but rather strive to connect authentically with the POV character’s feelings whether he’s represented in first- or limited third-person. Especially as informing the emotional choices of the narration by the POV best aligns with the author’s intent – i.e. experiencing the world through that character’s eyes, heart, and mind. I love creating a full cast of distinct characters, but I still prioritize the “who” (a character is) over the “what” (they sound like).
Calling all independents
DOSSIER: Can authors request that you narrate their book? How would that work?
OCHLAN: Absolutely. I work primarily with audio publishers and production companies – and authors can always request me through their publishers – but some of my favorite projects and series are with independent authors who contact me directly, through ACX (Audible’s independent audiobook production platform), etc.
Brief me up
DOSSIER: What’s the biggest message writers (or listeners) need to hear from audiobook narrators about the whole audiobook process that would help you produce the best possible rendition?
OCHLAN: It’s always wonderful to get an author’s insights prior to production. Some publishers ask for audio briefs from authors that include character breakdowns, pronunciation preferences, accent notes, etc. These are tremendously useful and I ask for them when working independently as well. If you’re an indie author working directly with your narrator/producer, be sure to communicate performance requests during pre-production. It’s impractical to change big subjective choices (e.g. a character’s voice throughout the book) after recording is complete.
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