The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
As a recent convert to audiobooks, I’ve found that the genre I’m most easily engrossed in when listening is adventure. Nothing is able to capture my imagination better, and, with the help of a good adventure audiobook, doing laundry can be transformed into a quest for hidden treasure, or the commute to work can turn into a voyage across stormy seas.
With that in mind, I’m sharing my top picks for the very best adventure audiobooks. There’s something here for all ages, and for anyone who’s curious about injecting a little more action into their listening. Enjoy!
1. Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne
While normally a man of routine, an unexpected wager sends our hero Phileas Fogg on an ambitious expedition. His goal? To travel around the world in just 80 days. This intrepid explorer uses whatever mode of transport he can find — think less planes, trains, and automobiles, and more ferries, elephants, and wind-powered sledges.
This classic of the genre is well worth the read, and even more worth listening to, thanks to the excellent full-cast version released recently on Audible. Featuring performances from a star-studded cast, including acclaimed actor Toby Jones as the lead, this brilliantly engineered audiobook is an entire immersive world, including sound effects. Plus, clocking in at only 4 and a bit hours, it’s the perfect bite-sized audiobook to whet your appetite for more adventure.
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
2. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
If you think Around the World in 80 Days’ scope is ambitious, Hitchhiker’s Guide goes one step further; around the galaxy. Following the story of reluctant hero Arthur Dent — whose very bad day turns out to be the beginning of an entirely new adventure — this classic sci-fi title is as funny as it is action-packed.
The audiobook version truly does justice to Douglas Adams’ trademark wit, as it’s narrated by comedian Stephen Fry with expert comic timing. The wackiness of this adventure makes Arthur’s intergalactic travels the perfect companion to your own commute — but be warned. You should only listen if you’re comfortable receiving some sidelong glances for laughing out loud on the train.
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
3. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by JK Rowling
Another entry on our list, another audiobook narrated by Stephen Fry — can you tell he’s a favorite of mine? The Harry Potter audiobooks were the soundtrack to many people’s childhoods, and still hold up two decades after the first one was released. Despite the excitement and adventure to be found there, there’s still something nostalgic and comforting about returning to the familiar world of Hogwarts, making it one of my most revisited picks.
If you’ve somehow yet to enjoy the adventures of everyone’s favorite boy wizard (or simply want to live them again), the audiobook series is the perfect way to get started. And don’t worry, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into; over a hundred hours of magic and misadventure awaits.
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
4. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
If you like your adventure swashbuckling and sea-sprayed, look no further than Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic Treasure Island. This coming-of-age story follows Jim Hawkins, an inn-keeper’s son who is drawn into an irresistible current of high-seas adventure after a mysterious old sailor comes to town and entrusts him with a task and a map. A tale of piracy, mutiny, and buried treasure. What more could you ask for?
This is another classic that’s been turned into a full-cast recording by Audible Originals, and the star-studded version is the easiest way to consume the story — perhaps only second to the Muppets movie…
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
5. The Wee Free Men by Terry Pratchett
An adventure with a feminist edge, The Wee Free Men is a laugh-out-loud fantasy classic with real heart. It’s my personal favorite of Sir Terry Pratchett’s incomparable Discworld novels, and the perfect introduction to the series if you haven’t read any yet. Wee Free Men tells the story of Tiffany Aching, a young witch whose fierce protectiveness over her family and their home launches her into conflict with a powerful Elven queen. Tiffany is determined to rescue her brother from the queen’s clutches, with nothing but a gaggle of six-inch tall blue men and a frying pan to protect her.
There’s a classic version of the audiobook released in 2004, but keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for the newer version, released April 2022. As a celebration of 50 years of Terry Pratchett’s writing, 40 of his works are being rereleased, with updated audio quality and a truly exceptional cast.
Want more books set on islands? Check out this post by Kerry Anne King!
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
6. True Grit by Charles Portis
Another story about a tenacious young girl looking to exact revenge, True Grit is one of the best known Western adventure novels, and for good reason. You’ll go on the journey of a lifetime with 14-year old Mattie Ross as she trails the prairies stalking the outlaw that killed her father, an adventure compelling enough to absorb both hardcore fans of the genre and the uninitiated.
The audiobook is a particular delight, as the razor-sharp dialogue and deadpan narration is taken on by none other than The Secret History author Donna Tartt, whose soft southern tones bring the story to life perfectly.
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
7. The Hobbit by J R R Tolkein
J R R Tolkein’s Middle Earth novels are some of the best known stories of all time, and the quest of hobbit Bilbo Baggins and a merry band of dwarves ticks all the boxes for guaranteed adventure. Hero’s journey? Check. Action? Check. Peril? Check. Dragon guarded treasure? Check.
Rob Inglis’s velvety voice and musical delivery does true justice to the source material here, and this iconic audiobook is one not to be missed. Vividly imagined and steeped in lore, Middle Earth will have you wanting to extend your visit long after the last page. Luckily you’ll have its sequel The Lord of the Rings to provide your next dose
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
8. Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
A smash hit phenomenon that science fiction publishers have been trying to recreate ever since, it’s no wonder that Hollywood came calling for Ready Player One in the form of a Stephen Spielberg movie deal. Set in a future dystopia where a climate crisis has left many struggling financially, the novel follows a young boy called Wade and his friends. They’re on the hunt for an incredibly valuable easter egg, hidden in a worldwide virtual reality game which many have turned to for escape in dark times.
The book is chock full of action and geekery, with pop culture references and nostalgia to boot, and the audiobook is just as entertaining. Fun fact, Ready Player One’s audio version is narrated by sci fi actor Wil Wheaton, who is also mentioned in passing in the book. Very meta.
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
9. Dune by Frank Herbert
This tale of intrigue and betrayal follows the life of Paul Atreides, a young noble whose family rules a hostile and harsh planet made up of desert wastelands. The planet’s main export is spice, a drug that has life extending properties and enables users to perform space travel. Desire to control the supply of spice leads to an intergalactic war breaking out, shattering Paul’s family and leading him on a path of adventure and self-discovery.
Sprawling and epic, Dune may seem prohibitively long (the audiobook clocks in at over 21 hours), but the listening experience of this excellent full-cast production is well worth the time invested.
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
10. The Odyssey by Homer
While this prototypical adventure book may have been around for millennia, it’s certainly not a story best left in the past. Not only has Homer’s epic poem influenced literature and literary fiction for thousands of years and been held up as one of the birthplaces of the Western canon, it’s also just… really good.
Following the hero Odysseus’ journey back to his home island — a journey which sees him crossing paths with monsters, sea witches, and a man eating cyclops — this story is still just as riveting as it has always been. Since the poem comes from the oral tradition, and was as such originally meant to be spoken aloud, it seems only fitting to give the audiobook version a try.
The 10 Best Adventure Audiobooks: A Guest Post by Rose Atkinson-Carter
Rose Atkinson-Carter is a writer with Reedsy, a marketplace that connects authors with the world’s best self-publishing resources and professionals like editors, designers, and ghostwriters.
HBL Note: If you've devoured the adventures listed above and find yourself yearning for more thrilling journeys, your quest for captivating audiobooks continues! Delving into new worlds and embarking on daring expeditions is just a click away. Consider exploring genres like historical fiction for tales of past explorations, science fiction for interstellar voyages, and fantasy for magical quests. Pay close attention to narrator reviews, as a skilled voice can elevate an already compelling story to new heights. Websites and apps dedicated to audiobooks often provide curated lists and recommendations based on your listening history, making it easier to discover your next great auditory adventure.
11. "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer:
About: The true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandons his privileged life to seek solitude in the Alaskan wilderness.
Why it's top adventure: It explores the human desire for adventure and the complex relationship between humans and nature. The audiobook brings Krakauer's vivid descriptions and McCandless's journey to life.
What listeners love: The thought-provoking narrative, the exploration of profound themes, and the emotional impact of the story.
12. "Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail" by Cheryl Strayed:
About: Strayed's memoir of her 1,100-mile solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail as she grapples with personal loss.
Why it's top adventure: It's a powerful story of resilience and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a challenging wilderness journey. The audio version allows you to feel the physical and emotional intensity of her hike.
What listeners love: Strayed's honest and compelling voice, the inspiring message of perseverance, and the vivid descriptions of the natural world.
13. "Jurassic Park" by Michael Crichton:
About: Scientists create a theme park of cloned dinosaurs, but things quickly go disastrously wrong.
Why it's top adventure: A classic thriller with a perfect blend of scientific intrigue and heart-pounding action. The audio version enhances the suspense and brings the dinosaurs to life.
What listeners love: The thrilling pacing, the imaginative premise, and the sense of awe and terror.
14. "The Lost City of Z" by David Grann:
About: The true story of Percy Fawcett, a British explorer who disappeared while searching for a lost civilization in the Amazon.
Why it's top adventure: A captivating blend of historical mystery and jungle adventure. The audiobook immerses you in the dangers and wonders of the Amazon.
What listeners love: The fascinating historical details, the sense of mystery and danger, and Grann's engaging storytelling.
15. "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson:
About: Bryson's humorous account of his attempt to hike the Appalachian Trail.
Why it's top adventure: A lighthearted and entertaining adventure with plenty of laughs. The audio version captures Bryson's witty voice and observations.
What listeners love: Bryson's humor, the relatable experiences, and the insights into the Appalachian Trail.
16. "The Way of Kings" by Brandon Sanderson:
About: The first book in the epic fantasy series The Stormlight Archive, set in a world of high storms and shattered plains.
Why it's top adventure: A massive and immersive world with complex characters and thrilling action. The audio version, with its excellent narration, brings the world to life.
What listeners love: The intricate world-building, the complex characters, and the epic scope of the story.
17. "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros:
About: A fantasy novel where young adults train to become dragon riders at a deadly war college.
Why it is a top adventure: It has a very fast paced story, full of action, and romantic elements. The narration of the audiobook is very well done, and adds to the experience.
What listeners love: The dragons, the romantic elements, and the fast paced action.
18. "He Who Fights with Monsters" series by Shirtaloon:
About: A LitRPG adventure series where a man finds himself transported to a fantasy world with a system of levels and skills.
Why it is a top adventure: It is a very fun series, that has a great mix of humor, action, and progression. The narration by Heath Miller, is very highly praised.
What listeners love: The humor, the progression of the character, and the narration.
19. "Lost World" by Michael Crichton:
About: A sequel to Jurassic Park, which follows characters returning to a different island where dinosaurs are living.
Why it is a top adventure: It follows up on the thrills of the original Jurassic Park, and adds more information about the dinosaurs. The audio book brings the dangers to life.
What listeners love: The continuation of the Jurassic Park story, and the thrilling action.
20. "Travels with Charley: In Search of America" by John Steinbeck:
About: Steinbeck's account of his road trip across America with his poodle, Charley.
Why it's top adventure: A classic travelogue that captures the spirit of America. The audio version allows you to experience Steinbeck's insightful observations and reflections.
What listeners love: Steinbeck's beautiful writing, the nostalgic feel, and the exploration of American identity.
