Audiobooks for children
Children’s audiobooks aren’t just for rainy days or long car journeys – they’re a brilliant way for children to pick up new words, get hooked on stories, and give their eyes a rest from screens. Kids who find reading tricky can jump right in and enjoy tales they might struggle to tackle on their own. There’s something special about hearing a good book read aloud, whether it’s to spark the imagination, calm things down at bedtime, or simply bring the family together for a story well told. We’ve selected 20+ audiobooks with particularly good narration to get 3-12-year-olds hooked. This list features books by J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Philip Pullman, Roald Dahl, Julia Donaldson, Michael Bond, Jeff Kinney, Jessica Townsend, Katherine Rundell, and Michael Rosen.
Audiobooks for children – our recommendations
Goldilocks and the Three Crocodiles by Michael Rosen
Michael Rosen turns the classic fairy tale upside down with this lively retelling, where Goldilocks meets three crocodiles instead of bears. Full of wordplay and playful twists, this audiobook is a delight for 3-8 year olds. Rosen’s own narration adds trademark mischief and fun. Highly recommended.
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Roz the robot wakes up on a remote island and must learn to survive among animals and the changing seasons in this popular story about kindness, community, and finding your place in the world. Narrator Kate Atwater gives Roz and her friends warmth, personality, and soul, making this audiobook hugely memorable.
Land of the Last Wildcat by Lui Sit
Xia and her friends discover clues about wildcats and hidden dangers while exploring the mountains of China in this story about courage, teamwork, and saving endangered animals. Nicolette Chin’s engaging narration that pulls listeners right into the heart of the adventure.
The Hobbit, Or, There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien
Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit living quietly at Bag End, is swept into an adventure when he joins Gandalf and thirteen dwarves on a quest to reclaim treasure from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo faces all sorts of unexpected challenges and creatures. First published in 1937, The Hobbit lays the groundwork for Tolkien’s later stories in The Lord of the Rings. Rob Inglis narrates this audiobook.
The Complete Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
Step through the wardrobe into a world of talking animals, magical battles, and unforgettable adventures. This collection gathers all seven Narnia books, letting listeners journey alongside Lucy, Edmund, Susan, Peter, and their friends. With Michael York, Lynn Redgrave, and a full cast bringing the stories to life, this audiobook is a wonderful way to experience C. S. Lewis’s classic tales.
Northern Lights by Philip Pullman
Lyra Belacqua sets out on a daring quest from Oxford to the icy North, where missing children, strange creatures, and powerful secrets await. Pullman’s tale weaves friendship, courage, and discovery into a magical adventure. Joined by a full cast, the author narrates, making this stunningly atmospheric audiobook a standout for both new listeners and fans of His Dark Materials. Highly recommended.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Join Charlie Bucket as he steps inside Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory, where anything seems possible and every room hides a new surprise. Packed with colourful characters and unexpected twists, this story never loses its charm. Douglas Hodge’s lively narration makes the audiobook especially fun for younger listeners.
The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson
A little mouse takes a stroll through the woods and outsmarts a host of hungry animals with his clever tale of a fearsome Gruffalo. This beloved rhyming story is a favourite with children and adults, and Imelda Staunton’s gentle narration brings all the woodland creatures to life.
The Extremely Embarrassing Life of Lottie Brooks by Katie Kirby
Lottie Brooks is muddling through her first year at secondary school, dealing with friends, family, and plenty of awkward moments. Full of diary entries and laugh-out-loud situations, this audiobook captures the ups and downs of growing up. Narrator Charlotte Ritchie gives Lottie a warm, honest voice that makes her story feel real and relatable.
A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond
From his arrival at Paddington Station with a suitcase and a love for marmalade, Paddington’s adventures never fail to charm. Whether he’s getting into scrapes or making new friends, these classic stories are full of warmth and gentle humour. Stephen Fry’s sparkling narration gives Paddington and the Brown family warmth and heart.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
Greg Heffley’s middle school years are anything but easy, especially when he’s writing it all down in his diary. From embarrassing moments to family drama, Greg’s adventures will make you laugh and cringe in equal measure. Ramon De Ocampo’s energetic narration is a highlight. Highly recommended.
Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend
Morrigan Crow is cursed and doomed, until she’s whisked away to the magical city of Nevermoor, where anything seems possible. Adventure, friendship, and plenty of unexpected twists fill this story from start to finish. Gemma Whelan’s narration makes it a magical and imaginative listen for KS2 children.
Bunny Vs Monkey by Jamie Smart
In the middle of the forest, Bunny and Monkey are locked in a never-ending battle of pranks, inventions, and hilarious mishaps. With wild sound effects and lively narration by Ciaran Saward, the audiobook makes these comics burst with energy, giving children a front-row seat to the chaos. Highly recommended for less enthusiastic readers.
How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell
Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III is nothing like the Viking hero everyone expects, but with a tiny dragon called Toothless at his side, he’s ready for adventure. Full of humour and daring deeds, this story is brought to life by David Tennant’s playful narration. It’s perfect for 7-9 year olds, and their parents!
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
Christopher discovers a hidden archipelago where griffins soar and mythical beasts roam. Swept up in a race to save this secret world, he must be brave and quick-witted. Samuel West’s narration fills the story with energy and wonder, making this hugely imaginative fantasy an unforgettable listen.
Dexter Procter: the 10-Year-Old Doctor by Adam Kay
Dexter Procter might only be ten, but he’s got the stethoscope, the white coat, and all sorts of wild medical adventures ahead. Packed with jokes and clever twists, this audiobook will have 7-11 year olds laughing out loud. Adam Kay’s own narration keeps Dexter’s voice fresh, funny, and full of energy.
Skandar and the Unicorn Thief by A. F. Steadman
Skandar dreams of bonding with a wild unicorn and joining the ranks of the Island’s best riders. But his journey takes a thrilling turn when a legendary unicorn is stolen. David Dawson’s lively narration adds plenty of excitement, awe and wonder. Be warned, your children will want audiobook 2, 3, and… Highly recommended.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Follow the journey of a tiny caterpillar with a big appetite as he munches his way through fruits, leaves, and more. The story’s gentle rhythm and repetition make it a favourite for young listeners, and Kevin R. Free’s cheerful narration helps bring the classic board book to life for a whole new generation.
The Land of Roar by Jenny McLachlan
Twins Arthur and Rose stumble back into Roar, a world they once imagined, only to find it more real, and more dangerous, than they remembered. Full of flying dragons, daring quests, and magic, this audiobook is unadulterated fun. Narrator Rosie Jones makes it easy for kids to lose themselves in the sheer imagination and adventure. Highly recommended.
The Wolf Wilder by Katherine Rundell
Feodora and her mother teach tamed wolves how to survive in the wild Russian forests. When danger comes close, Feo must rely on her courage and her animal friends to fight back. Edith Bowman’s narration adds excitement and heart to this tale of bravery and wild adventure.
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