Listening to a story is the first way that we’re introduced to books as kids. And while our parents and grandparents (and babysitters and siblings!) are no doubt wonderful narrators who left indelible marks on our bookish hearts, the performances featured on this list elevate these stories to new heights. It was hard to narrow down our collection to 100—some of your childhood favorites might be missing (some of ours certainly are!). But we stayed focused on what makes each title special in audio, which at times meant fun sound effects, impressive multicast productions, or a single narrator who perfectly embodies the heart of the story. Representing listens for kids ages 0-12, and featuring animals, magical creatures, awkward middle schoolers, and more, our kids essentials will help you rediscover the magic of childhood.
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This joyful podcast introduces Foley, the newest furry friend on Sesame Street. She and guests make silly sounds and discuss topics like superheroes, animals, and birthdays.
Winner of the Newbery Medal, this tender middle-grade novel about a silverback gorilla who befriends a baby elephant is performed with gentle precision by Adam Grupper.
Aztec mythology, mystery, and adventure combine in this memorable tale in which young Cece faces criaturas (creatures) and brujas (witches) in her journey to save her kidnapped sister.
Author Adam Rubin proves he’s a multihyphenate with his delightful performance of this modern classic that has listeners of all ages laughing along (and craving tacos).
Ann Patchett co-narrates the story of how a girl’s life is transformed when she finds an unexpected friend in Winn-Dixie, an energetic pup named after the store where he was found.
Delightfully read by Peter Schickele, this classic about a boy who sails to a distant island, tames the wild things, and returns home in time for supper, is as timeless as ever.
Jamie Lee Curtis stars in this hilarious, heartfelt multicast Audible Original set at Camp Cartwright, where tween Mookie Hooper is investigating the mysterious disappearance of a young girl.
Part of the 1619 Project, Born on the Water is a lyrical and thoughtful book about the long-term consequences of slavery and the little-known triumphs of Black resistance.
The boy wizard who needs no introduction. Jim Dale’s award-winning performance skillfully embodies each character, fully bringing this wondrous, ever-popular series to life.
Kate Winslet’s Audie-winning performance lifts this novel to new heights, vividly portraying lovable bookworm Matilda as she battles Miss Trunchbull and a horrid homelife.
Actor Michael York’s lively performance is a perfect match for this canonical adventure story. Filled with complex emotions and fantastical creatures, it never ceases to dazzle.
Trini Alvarado’s narration electrifies this vivid sketch of life in Mexico and California during the Great Depression, exploring class differences and struggles from a tween's perspective.
A hilarious series about two class clowns and their brainchild: Captain Underpants! Len Forgione, Dazjon Freeman, and Ben D’Amico are among the stellar narrators who perform each adventure.
Many adult horror fans point to R.L. Stine as part of their spooky origin story, and Carol Schneider’s energetic performance makes this both a perfect entry point for kids and a fun nostalgia listen for grown-ups.
Hailed as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory meets A Night at the Museum, this Agatha Award-winning mystery from Chris Grabenstein will enthrall book nerds and game lovers alike.
From the makers of Blue’s Clues, the story of a unicorn on a quest to start the best band in the universe with help from a giant, a spider, and a guitar-shredding princess. Need we say more?
Julia Donaldson’s satisfying tale of a clever mouse who outwits all his predators is made immensely more charming by Imelda Staunton’s brilliant performance.
Combining science and magic, this series introduces listeners to scientific journals, hypotheses, experiments, and more, all through precocious heroine Zoey, performed by Janina Edwards, and her intuitive cat Sassafras.
Richard Armitage delivers a masterful rendition of a kidlit classic that’s been cherished by families for more than a century. Themes of love, innocence, and the magic of childhood abound.
The beloved coming-of-age story of the feisty, imaginative Anne Shirley, set in shimmering Prince Edward Island, is performed by Rachel McAdams, who enlivens Anne’s every fateful encounter.
This quirky childhood favorite, renowned for its clever wordplay and wacky characters, has the perfect narrator in The Office’s Rainn Wilson, who also wrote the foreword.
Originally published in 1967, this story more than holds up, tapping into a primal part of the imagination, and perfect for any kid who dreams of growing up and moving to New York City.
Acclaimed trans actress Jamie Clayton narrates Alex Gino’s wonderful novel about Melissa, who knows that she identifies as a girl but hasn't worked up the courage to tell anyone else.
Beware the Cheese Touch! No series has resonated more with preteens than this gem about relatable middle schooler Greg Heffley. All 18 books and counting are narrated by the great Ramon De Ocampo.
Winnie-the-Pooh and friends are universally beloved characters for a reason, and Peter Dennis is the only narrator endorsed by the real-life Christopher Robin, author A.A. Milne's son.
Poet and activist Amanda Gorman’s hope-filled call to action is a joy to hear—inspiring every listener to believe that they can be the change they wish to see.
Narrator Kerry Beyer brings this groundbreaking middle-grade novel to life about a cursed kid who won’t stop digging for the truth after he's sent to a detention center.
This classic, irreverent British tale beckons young listeners to pull up a seat and stay a while. Michael Hordern’s voice is like a warm, cozy blanket—with just the right amount of wry wit.
Prepare for a good cry. Robert Sean Leonard’s sensitive performance steers listeners through this poignant story about the power of imagination and the devastation of unbearable loss.
This all-ages listen carries a powerful message about compassion and learning to embrace the things that make us unique, beautifully performed by a cast that captures the story’s multiple points of view.
Audie-nominated narrator Suzy Jackson soars in this story about the magical power of music, but it’s the four original musical compositions crafted for this audiobook that really make it shine.
Tim Curry’s Grammy-nominated performance perfectly complements the darkly humorous tale of three orphaned siblings who outsmart their atrocious captors again and again to remain a family.
Admit it—you wanted to be a spy when you were a kid. Those undercover dreams come true for not-so-secret nerd Ben Ripley, but he’s in over his head. Funny and suspenseful, Spy School will delight your preteen.
Corduroy is a library staple—we all know that cover. But what does America's favorite teddy bear sound like? Academy Award-winner Viola Davis, that’s who!
Ramona Young helms this fun series about Daisy, a ringside announcer for World Monster Wrestling. Each episode centers on an interview with a new, colorful, and memorable monster.
Mo Willems’s zany and lovable Pigeon wants to stay up late, thank you very much! Willems’s signature humor flows through his performance in this perfect addition to any bedtime routine.
Featuring award-winning narrators, this one is a cheeky history lesson for kids about rivalries that helped shape the world, featuring kidnappings, explosions, and duels aplenty.
Michael Curran-Dorsano gives an Earphones Award-winning performance in this tale of a boy separated from his pet fox—a lesson in growing pains, loss, and finding yourself.
The first book in Jory John’s The Food Group series cleverly promotes self-care in an easily digestible way, with an engaging performance from Dan Bittner.
Actor and activist Grace Byers narrates her own uplifting children's book, teaching kids important life lessons: love and value yourself, respect others, and be kind to one another.
Brought to life by Kelsey Grammar, Dustin Hoffman, and an impressive cast of A-list talent, these 11 beloved stories from Dr. Seuss are even more charming in audio.
Sunny Lu brilliantly narrates this audiobook about a girl juggling school with big issues at home, where her immigrant parents are being taken advantage of by the motel where they live and work.
This imaginative series tells the story of Aru Shah, a spirited young girl who accidentally unleashes the end of time while messing around in the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture.
This historical fiction series that speaks to children's fascination with the incomprehensible—from war to natural disasters—starts off with the tale of a boy who survived the Titanic, deftly performed by Lauren Fortgang.
There are few characters in literature more iconic than J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan, the Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up. Actress Lily Collins brings new, youthful energy to Peter’s magical adventures.
Peter and the Starcatchers takes the beloved character of Peter Pan and reimagines his world. Jim Dale won two Audies for this listen, and his performance will have everyone in your family hooked.
Winner of the Newbery Medal, this moving novel set in Depression-era Mississippi is the story of young Cassie Logan and her family as they struggle against racism and social injustice.
A young Viking is tasked with catching and training his own dragon. Actor David Tennant narrates the challenges and adventures with impressive dexterity, using a trove of nuanced Old Norse-ish accents.
Narrator Suzy Jackson’s voice perfectly captures 11-year-old Charlie Reese—a girl who learns the true meaning of family with the help of a dog named Wishbone.
Robin Miles brings heart and warmth to this tale of an exceptional preteen faced with losing both of her adoptive parents—a coming-of-age story that celebrates our differences and the power of found family.
This heart-wrencher follows three young voices, each fleeing a home that is no longer safe. Bridging Nazi Germany, Cuba, and Syria, the way the threads connect in the end is both startling and poignant.
Root Magic is a unique ghost story abounding with local folklore, beautifully performed by Imani Parks. The spine-chilling encounters with spirits—and lessons in Gullah history—make for a perfect middle-grade listen.
Priya Ayyar’s narration takes us to 1947 India and the emotional journey of 12-year-old Nisha as she writes to her mother and learns about herself and her changing, post-colonial world.
Everybody knows Pete the Cat, and kids love taking him on car rides. His familiar voice is a welcome addition to any quick trip, no screen required.
Remember getting caught up in a good story when you were a kid? Inkheart depicts what happens when stories really do come alive. Lynn Redgrave’s performance adds excitement to an already exciting plot.
What happens when an unlikely duo becomes the best of friends? As this heartwarming series by Annie Barrows reveals, lots of chaos and character-driven fun.
Performed by author Charlie Mackesy himself, with a heartfelt introduction and lovely soundscape, the audio adds a brilliant new dimension to this picture book about kindness.
This is the first audio version of Charlotte's Web, read by author E.B. White himself, and it stands the test of time. Even more than 70 years after its debut, this endearing classic holds the same gentle magic.
Emmy Award winner Stockard Channing performs this beloved eight-book series. Kids love listening to a character they can see themselves in, while parents appreciate the reminders of their own childhood.
This engaging depiction of the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman tops author Yona Zeldis McDonough’s collection of children's books aimed at making complex subjects easier for kids to understand.
Julie Berry’s delightful, alliteratively titled kidlit trilogy is a feat of whimsy: a charming tale that trails feisty heroine Maeve on her magical journey after she unearths a djinni.
A 12-year-old is left to defend a massive starship carrying 20,000 people against a posse of determined space pirates. The riveting full-cast production makes it a can’t-miss adventure.
Based on the Oscar-winning short film and performed by Blue Ivy Carter, Hair Love is an ode to self-esteem, father-daughter relationships, and celebrating your natural beauty.
Loveable second-grader Alvin Ho copes with his anxiety about school and everything else in this humorous series, made doubly sweet by kid narrator Everette Plen’s performance.
An unforgettable full-cast production with original music, this Newbery Medal winner tells the story of Jordan, a new student and the only kid of color at an elite middle school.
The quintessential listen for truck fans everywhere becomes an immersive experience for our littlest listeners, with engaging sound effects and the deep, soothing voice of Dion Graham.
This series is a perennial listener favorite, and it’s no wonder why—it follows a dynamic group of preteen girls as they live out lessons of self-discovery, true friendship, and changing family dynamics.
Acclaimed narrators Oliver Wyman and Vikas Adam embody the alternating perspectives of two unlikely best friends—Klawde the cat, exiled emperor of the planet Lyttyrboks, and Raj, an average boy. Hilarity ensues.
A vibrant full cast brings the colors of the rainbow to life in this creative back-to-school listen that teaches a valuable lesson about honoring self-expression.
Truly a plot for the entire family’s listening enjoyment, Gary Paulsen’s most famous work captures the struggle and thrill of surviving on one’s own in the wilderness.
This sensitive and hopeful tale of friendship and resilience during WWII is a good starting point for young listeners first learning about one of history’s darkest corners.
Robin Miles’s performance brings this story and each of its characters to life in a modern classic about five siblings fighting to stay in their beloved home.
Inspired by Haitian folktales, this adventure story is mixed with just the right amount of spine-tingling horror, read with relish by Audible Hall of Fame narrator Robin Miles.
Fans of Fleabag, Ripley, and 1984 may not think they are in the market for Beatrix Potter, but the Andrew Scott Venn diagram of awesomeness prevails and brings this classic collection to a new level.
Protagonists Sophie and Agatha are groomed for opposing fairy tale futures in a series that challenges young listeners to think about stereotypes, narrated by Polly Lee in her lovely British lilt.
If your kids are wondering what Greek gods sound like, they’ll be thrilled with Jesse Bernstein’s Earphones Award-winning performance in book 1 of this blockbuster series.
An original podcast from Highlights Magazine, Lola Chick is perfect for young preschoolers, featuring memorable adventures, bilingual dialogue (Spanish and English), and lively music.
The incredible depth and range of Ralph Cosham’s performance breathes new life into Rudyard Kipling’s classic tales of friendship, family, and nature, first published in 1894.
Sulwe is a girl with dark, dark skin who wishes more than anything for it to be lighter. Actress Lupita Nyong'o’s writing debut is a stunning exploration of colorism and the true meaning of beauty.
Morrigan Crow lived a drab, unhappy life until she was whisked away to another world and enrolled in a magical school, brought to life by British actress Gemma Whelan’s dynamic narration.
Parents will thank Hoda Kotb for making bedtime a breeze, as her soothing performance of this childhood staple helps little ones to settle down swiftly.
Scarlett Johansson brings a palpable sense of joy and exuberance to her performance of Lewis Carroll’s enduring classic, enlivening the cast of strange and fantastic characters.
The lyrical voice of megastar Leigh-Anne Pinnock, boosted by original music and Dolby Atmos-enhanced sound design, makes this vibrant adaptation a truly immersive experience.
Fruit bat Stellaluna is separated from her bat family and is raised by birds. But she learns that what’s strange to a bird is normal for a bat. Narrated lovingly by Christina Moore.
Upon discovering censored lines of text in their assigned reading, a plucky group of students face off with their teacher, their town, and the adults who seek to silence them.
The source of many childhood imaginings over the years, this edition of The Secret Garden is narrated by award-winning actress Carrie Hope Fletcher.
Though written for children, this classic offers lessons for all ages. Humphrey Bower narrates and, to quote one parent, his performance "was like listening to a grandfather telling a bedtime story."
Stanley Tucci brings everyone’s favorite ogre to life in this original story by William Steig, which inspired the beloved fairy tale franchise and its unlikely hero.
This is the first in Judy Blume's Fudge series, which follows a boy learning to love his little brother even when he's exasperated by him. The audiobook, narrated by Blume herself, is an absolute joy.
This hilarious story collection induces side-splitting laughter with its silly spins on classic fairy tales, offering an unconventional and utterly unforgettable listen.
A children's book with no pictures? Sounds like the perfect audiobook! Author B.J. Novak and narrator Busy Philipps deliver a clever and fun listen for toddlers who love playing with different noises.
Listeners will find themselves hooked on every word of this family-friendly memoir that offers immersive poetic imagery, impassioned narration, and thoughtful commentary on race in America.
Read by Neil Patrick Harris, this true story of two male penguins who nurture a hatchling together is a beautiful way to teach kids that loving families come in all shapes and sizes.
Matt De La Pena's story about a grandmother and grandson’s simple bus ride across town becomes a moving meditation on inequity and learning how to find gratitude in an imperfect world.
Broadway legend Bernadette Peters is absolutely delightful as Eloise, the colorful girl who lives in the Plaza Hotel—complete with the immersive sounds of the hotel in this audio edition.
Anne Hathaway’s enchanting performance highlights the beauty of L. Frank Baum’s original story, including lots of adventures that were left out of the beloved film version.
Andy Serkis, who played Gollum in the films, brings his incredible talent and astounding vocal range to Tolkien’s classic adventure about a hobbit who helps 13 dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland.
Katherine Kellgren’s performance is one of the wonders of the audiobook world! She is a phenomenon and she brings the indomitable Jacky Faber to vivid life.
A preteen learns to speak up and fight for himself and others in Pakistan amid inequality and unfair academic standards, read by Narrator Hall of Famer Vikas Adam.
Told through audio recordings and performed by a full cast, this Audie-winning tale is a touching and complex coming-of-age story that’s even better in audio.
