Meet the Voice Behind Sanders’ Starfish: James Davidson

Stories have a way of impacting the right people and finding them at the perfect moment. For James Davidson, the story found in Sanders’ Starfish did just that—it was a guide for him, from being a high school creative writing student to becoming an audiobook narrator.

Though I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting James in person, getting to know him through our communications has been a delight. His passion for storytelling, his thoughtful reflections on his craft, and his insight into the world of audiobook narration make him a fascinating voice — both literally and figuratively.

From Creative Aspirations to Audiobook Narration

James has always been drawn to lending his voice creatively. At first, he imagined himself doing video game voiceover work — not audiobook narration. But reading Sanders’ Starfish sparked an immediate connection.

“When I read it for the first time, I had a pretty immediate spark of inspiration,” James shared.

That spark grew into his first-ever audiobook narration, a project that would combine his love of storytelling with a chance to bring a character’s journey vividly to life.

“I want listeners to forget they’re listening to a book — because when I’m narrating, that exact thing happens to me,” he said.

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A Connection Years in the Making

James’ connection with author Tara Allred goes back to high school. Tara was working on The Other Side of Quiet and sought feedback from young creative writing students — James was one of them.

Years later, he revisited her work and noticed that Sanders’ Starfish didn’t have an audiobook. Taking a bold leap, he reached out to Tara with an offer to narrate it.

“She was reluctant at first,” James recalled. “But I sent her an audition, and once she heard it, she very excitedly agreed to move forward.”

That one courageous outreach marked the start of a journey that would allow him to bring his first major audiobook project to life. “I took an incredible risk reaching out to Tara. But you’ll never know until you try,” he said.

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Stepping Into John Sanders’ World

Sanders’ Starfish follows Dr. John Sanders, a young psychologist determined to help those society has deemed “hopeless.” James felt a strong connection to John’s drive to do what’s right, even when the consequences are difficult.

“John’s powerful desire to do what’s right resonates with me most. It’s something I understand very well — that uncontrollable urge to do the right thing, no matter the consequences.”

James worked to capture the story’s three central themes — faith, family, and mental health — maintaining the delicate balance that defines John’s journey. His narration brings subtle emotion, authenticity, and heart to every scene, from moments of tension and bravery to unexpected humor.

One particularly memorable scene for James was when John confronts his boss about the mistreatment of a patient. “John knows he’s putting everything on the line, but he pushes forward anyway, because it’s the right thing to do. That moment hit me really hard,” he said.

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Collaboration and Craft

Even as a first-time narrator, James emphasized the importance of collaboration. He and Tara maintained an open dialogue during the recording process, making sure that the story didn’t just sound good — it sounded great.

“We both knew our roles, but we were also comfortable sharing ideas. It’s that kind of collaboration that makes a story come alive.”

The result is a performance that fully honors Tara Allred’s storytelling while letting James’ own voice shine through.

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The Message That Matters

James hopes listeners take away more than just the story of John Sanders. “There’s nothing ‘wrong’ with those who are ostracized from the world — they’re simply different. And if we show them the same love and compassion we share with anyone else, we can make this world a better place.”

It’s a lesson in empathy, justice, and courage — values that guide both his narration and his outlook on storytelling.

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Meet James in Person

If you’re intrigued by James Davidson and Sanders’ Starfish, you don’t have to wait to experience his voice. Meet him in person on Nov 28th. James will be appearing at the Spanish Fork Christmas Gift and Craft Show alongside other authors affiliated with Patella Publishing Services.

Event Details:

Spanish Fork Fairgrounds – Indoor Tennis Courts Building

Friday & Saturday, November 28–29, 2025*

9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

*James will be at the event Nov 28th.

Stop by to meet James, chat about his narration, discover other authors and their works, and celebrate the joy of storytelling this holiday season.

Written and Edited by: Kohlten Johnson