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It takes some beating.

It really does.

We’re on a family trip.

Or just all pootling round the kitchen doing those dull chores we really can’t put off any longer.

Or hanging out on a rainy day playing with lego. Painting. Whatever.

And the whole family is gripped.

Ears glued to the phone or the iPad.

Because we’re ALL listening – TOGETHER! – to the latest chapter of a classic audio book!

Honestly. These have been the most special moments of our year.

Discovering new books, yes. But also rediscovering old tales from my childhood.

And my parents childhood. And my grandparents childhood!

BECAUSE somehow listening together to timeless stories is just … well

… you know … magical …

There is NO other word!

So as the nights draw in, and you hunker down for the winter, treat the whole family to a few of these classic audio books.

They are all over 40 year old BUT were Carnegie Award winners in their day.

AND have truly stood the test of time.

You can buy them individually or – at about half the price – with an Audible subscription.

We bought a subscription for the first time this year and are definitely getting our money’s worth.

7 Classic Audio Books For Kids

1. Pigeon Post

Arthur Ransome’s Pigeon Post (UK) was the first ever Carnegie book winner in 1936.

And very well deserved too, we say!

It’s number 6 in the Swallows & Amazons series but you can enjoy the gripping audio adventure of gold mines, spies and fire on the fell in it’s own right.

2. The Little White Horse

The Little White Horse (UK) by Elizabeth Goudge was J.K. Rowlings fave book as a child.

And it is a wonderfully complicated magical mystery that delves into hidden family secrets.

And demands unexpected bravery from its unlikely heroine to defeat the dark forces at work.

We love it but my hunch – if I can say this – is it’s an audio book that will be more popular with girls..

3. The Borrowers

Aw! We love The Borrowers (UK) – Mary Norton’s classic from 1952.

It’s funny. And adventurous.

But also raises lots of questions about family. And identity. And belonging.

4. Tom’s Midnight Garden

Tom’s Midnight Garden (UK) by Philippa Pearce is a perfect listen for a dark winter’s evening.

Is it a ghost story? Or has time itself somehow been bent around?

Whatever the truth, it will draw the whole family in.

5. Eagle of the Ninth

The Eagle of the Ninth (UK) is one for everyone from 9 to 90!

I am not sure who loves it most. Us or grandpa!

It’s the first in Rosemary Sutcliffe’s amazing, award winning series about Roman Britain.

Set around Hadrian’s Wall – you will have to visit after listening! – there’s seat of your pants adventure in every chapter.

6. The Children of Green Knowe

The Children Of Green Knowe (UK) by Lucy M. Boston is another entrancing story that muddles time and ghosts and memories.

It’s beautifully written but – be warned! – surprisingly scary at points.

7. Watership Down

Watership Down (UK), Richard Adams’ classic from 1972 needs little introduction.

The epic – perfect for audio – story is a wonderful exploration for children of personal bravery.

And how hard – but important – it is to stand up not just to fierce enemies, but also, at times, to our family and friends.

It’s obviously a bit dark for younger kids, but great for older 8s and up.

So there you go. 7 classic audio books for kids that the whole family will enjoy listening to together.

On car journeys. Doing chores. Or better still, snuggled up on a winter’s day!

I do hope you enjoy them.

If you’re looking for more great reads – and listens – for your kids do sign up for my newsletter …

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