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11 Audiobooks To Listen To As A Family

Written by Leith Tigges

Photography by Christine Alcalay, Photographed By Jenniver Lavelle

Have a family road trip on the horizon, a rainy weekend ahead, or just feeling the need to amp up your daily school carpool commute? While most of us have an iPhone or tablet in our hands that help to zone out during times of travel or boredom, why not utilize them in a different way and queue up a good old-fashioned book of the electronic kind to entertain? The convenience makes it easy to multitask, but still listen along. It can also make traffic a breeze, and is an engaging way to easily introduce your kids to new tales. Dig into our family favorites, below.

1. James and the Giant Peach, $21, Audible.
If you and the kids haven’t watched the enchanting flick based on this book, now is the time to at least give this special story a listen! The adventures of James and his extraordinary gang of friends is a tale that the whole family can enjoy and get lost in, and every kid should get to know this Roald Dahl classic!

2. Tuck Everlasting, $14.60, Audible.
This mystical, magical tale is one that’s been capturing the hearts of kids everywhere for years. Let imaginations run wild with this larger-than-life tale about the concept of living forever. What’s more, this audiobook is bound to bring up interesting opinions and discussions, whether it’s in the car or around the dinner table.

3. Holes, $21, Audible.
Stanley is a young boy suffering from a long line of curses in his family. A string of bad luck and misunderstanding leads Stanley down a tricky path of mystery and character building at Camp Green Lake. Hooked yet? Kids of all ages will love digging around this story along with Stanley and his band of misfit pals!

4. Because of Winn-Dixie, $14.60, Audible.
Opal is an ordinary 10-year-old girl who finds her life changed for the better upon the arrival of her new friend, a stray dog named Winn-Dixie. It’s a sweet coming-of-age narrative about how a summer of surprises and growth can change everything. Any story about the love between a kid and her pet is must-read in our book, or in this case, a must-listen!

5. Amelia Bedelia, $10.26, Audible.
The Amelia Bedelia series is quirky, sometimes relatable, and a great way to pass the time. What’s more, her silly misunderstandings and musings make for a super goofy and fun-filled story time. She bakes and cleans and wins the hearts of all her readers! We know she’ll win the hearts of your family members, too.

6. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, $19.93, Audible.
While this audiobook is a bit on the heavier side, it’s a touching historical piece that is most likely best absorbed with older kiddos. Author, John Boyne, perfectly depicts the intense reality of this time period, and weaves in a heart-wrenching tale of friendship. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas can also be a great way to introduce your kids to some harder subject matter!

7. Pippi Longstocking, $10.49, Audible.
There’s nothing quite like the story of legendary Pippi Longstocking. Her pigtails, her bravery, and her love for adventure are enough to keep your ears perked up, while listening to this audiobook! This character is also incredibly strong, and can be an ideal role model to discuss as a family!

8. Charlotte’s Web, $19.93, Audible.
Whether the kids know this story or not, it’s definitely a good idea to give the audiobook a listen. The whole family will fall in love with Wilbur and Charlotte, a pair of unlikely, yet incredibly close animal friends. Friendship and loyalty are key here, no matter how different we all may seem!

9. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, $17.95, Audible.
It’s tough to come by a more classic children’s author than Judy Blume! Her books will never go out of style (no matter what age the reader) and therefore, neither will her audiobooks. This is just the beginning of a series that all kids can enjoy for years to come.

10. Miracles on Maple Hill, $21.95, Audible.
This book is a Newbery Medal winner, and it’s easy to see why! Based on a true story, this children’s book touches on aspects that so many can relate to (moving and family, just to name a few!) The characters are memorable, and the setting is so vivid and picturesque. Grab your favorite cozy blanket, and find a corner of the couch to dive into this unforgettable tale together.

11. Matilda, $21, Audible.
The classic of all classics because, let’s face it: who wouldn’t look up to bold, unapologetically magical, Matlida? The movie itself is pure enchantment, so you can imagine just how lively and fun the audiobook is. In the end, Matilda offers a quirky, endearing tale that doubles as a sort of modern fairy tale!

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