Half-term is just around the corner, and whether you're hitting the road or relaxing at home, audiobooks are a fantastic way to keep the kids entertained without a screen in sight. There's something special about getting lost in a good story together, whether you've got little ones under five or tweens and teens in tow. Here’s a round-up of some lengthy audiobooks available at Voxblock, perfect for those long trips.
Under 5's
For the youngest listeners, these charming stories are just the right length to keep their attention while giving you some peaceful moments on the road.
A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond
2hrs 39mins
This beloved classic introduces Paddington, the marmalade-loving bear from Peru. The charming escapades of this polite yet accident-prone bear will bring plenty of smiles to your journey.
Finn Family Moomintroll by Tove Jamsson
3hrs 33mins
Step into the magical world of Moominvalley. The adventures of the Moomintroll family are whimsical and heartwarming, making it a gentle but absorbing listen for young children.
A Mole Like No Other by Julia B. Grantham
3hrs 02mins
This sweet story of a mole learning about friendship and adventure is a perfect pick for little ones. With its cosy charm and gentle pace, it will keep toddlers and preschoolers engaged.
5-8 Years
For children beginning to explore longer stories, these fun, action-packed adventures are great companions for any journey.
Famous Five: Five on a Treasure Island by Enid Blyton
4hrs 11mins
Nothing says adventure like the Famous Five! Join Julian, Dick, Anne, George, and Timmy the dog as they embark on a treasure hunt. It’s a nostalgic classic that still grips young imaginations today.
James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
2hrs 49mins
Roald Dahl's quirky characters and imaginative storytelling make this a fun ride. James' journey aboard a giant peach with his insect friends is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
The Boy Who Grew Dragons by Andy Shepherd
3hrs 08mins
Ever thought of growing dragons in your garden? When young Tomas discovers a dragon fruit plant that sprouts actual dragons, his life gets turned upside down. A lively and humorous tale that’s perfect for dragon-loving kids.
8-10 Years
For slightly older children, these audiobooks dive into more complex adventures, perfect for longer trips.
Malamander by Thomas Taylor
5hrs 05mins
This mysterious and slightly spooky tale set in the seaside town of Eerie-on-Sea will keep your 8-10-year-olds glued to the story. With a clever plot and memorable characters, it's an exciting adventure.
Pages & Co: Tilly and the Bookwanderers by Anna James
7hrs 18mins
Imagine being able to step into your favourite book! That’s exactly what Tilly does in this magical story. Perfect for book lovers, this one is a bit longer, making it ideal for lengthier car journeys.
The Train to Impossible Places by P.G.Bell
9hrs 31mins
All aboard the Train to Impossible Places! This wonderfully imaginative tale of Suzy and her adventures aboard a train that delivers post to magical realms is engaging and packed with fun. Its length is a bonus for longer trips.
10-Teens
For older kids and teens, these gripping stories are perfect for keeping them entertained (and quietly occupied) for hours.
A Place Called Perfect by Helena Duggan
8hrs 0mins
What if a town was just a bit too perfect? Violet quickly realises that there's something strange about her new home, and it’s up to her to uncover the mystery. It’s a gripping and eerie tale with just the right amount of suspense.
Alex Rider: Point Blanc by Anthony Horowitz
5hrs 4mins
The second in the Alex Rider series sees our teenage spy off to an elite school in the French Alps, where nothing is as it seems. Full of action and intrigue, this fast-paced audiobook is sure to thrill.
Twitch by M.G.Leonard
6hrs 25mins
If your young listener loves nature and mysteries, this one’s a gem. Twitch, a birdwatching boy with a knack for solving puzzles, gets caught up in a real-life mystery involving an escaped prisoner. It’s an exciting and fresh take on the classic adventure tale.
Half-term holidays can be long, especially if you’re travelling with children of different ages. Fortunately, audiobooks are an excellent way to keep everyone entertained. From whimsical tales for under-fives to gripping mysteries for tweens and teens, this list has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and enjoy the journey with these captivating stories.
Discover ways to introduce screen-free activities during the October half-term break with our blog post, 5 Screen-Free Activities for the October Half-Term Break.
