Crazy drivers, fussy kids and endless traffic can make road trips to see relatives seem like a nightmare, but thankfully, there’s reprieve in audiobooks. Escape the confines of your car with these family-friendly titles, which will not only engage the little ones, but have the adults in the car dialing in as well.
A Wrinkle In Time
Written by Madeleine L’Engle; Narrated by Hope Davis; 6 hours, 8 minutes
This beloved classic deserves a revisit before the movie comes out next year. The story follows Meg Murray, who along with her little brother Charles and friend Calvin, goes on an adventure through space and times as she searches for her scientist father. An enjoyable and imaginative story with courageous characters that will make that trip to Grandma’s go much faster.
The Chronicles of Narnia
Written by C.S. Lewis; Narrated by Michael York; 4 hours, 21 minutes
This enchanting narrative about four children’s visit to the magical world of Narnia has been a reader favorite, and hearing it come alive is just as special. The narrator seamlessly brings life to all the story’s characters and the engaging dialogue and plotline will keep both young and old engaged.
The Roald Dahl Audio Collection
Written by Roald Dahl; Narrated by Roald Dahl; 3 hours, 40 minutes
Roald Dahl lends not only his literary, but his voice talents, to this audiobook collection featuring Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Enormous Crocodile and The Magic Finger. Dahl infuses personality and humor into each of his stories, allowing the listener to escape into his fantastical worlds—an especially helpful device once traffic hits.
Nicholas St. North and the Battle of the Nightmare King: The Guardians, Book 1
Written by William Joyce and Laura Geringer; Narrated by Gerard Doyle; 3 hours, 23 minutes
Get in the holiday spirit with this imaginative title that features Santa as its main protagonist. Before he was Santa, he was Nicholas St. North, a swashbuckling daredevil who sought treasure and adventure. His bravery is soon put to the test, when he finds himself defending the village of Santoff Clausen against the evil Nightmare King and his Fearlings. With an enthralling story and vivid characters, this fantasy series—which is also the basis for the Rise of the Guardians movies—is perfect for children and families.
Hatchet
Written by Gary Paulsen; Narrated by Peter Coyote; 3 hours, 42 minutes
When 13-year-old Brian Robeson’s plane crashes in the Canadian wilderness, the teen must learn to survive, armed with only a hatchet and the clothes on his back. This Newbery Medal Honor–winning story will captivate both teen and adult listeners, who will be on the edge of their seat, waiting to hear how Robeson learns to overcome the elements and holds out hopes that someone will rescue him.
The Crossover
Written by Kwame Alexander; Narrated by Corey Allen; 2 hours, 16 minutes
Not only is The Crossover—about a 12-year-old boy and his relationship with his family and his love of basketball—a great story, but Kwame Alexander’s poetic verse and Corey Allen’s musical narration make for smooth and easy listening. With a flow that mirrors a basketball bouncing, the award-winning story is a fast-paced and lyrical gem that will have the whole car tuning in.
