As the name suggests, books on tape are recorded readings of books distributed through tapes and CDs. These books can be considered the predecessors of modern audiobooks.
Listening to books on tape or audiobooks can make many otherwise tedious activities more fun, road trips included. When you’ve got miles and miles of road ahead of you, it can start to feel a bit monotonous. Enter audiobooks.
Audiobooks can help you pass the time while driving by transporting you into an entirely different world filled with fascinating characters and exciting adventures.
Here are the 15 books on tape to listen to while driving through the desert or cruising down the coast.
The 15 best books on tape for road trips
Check out the 15 best audiobooks for road trips.
Born a Crime By Trevor Noah
Born a Crime takes you on a wild ride through South Africa during Apartheid with The Daily Show’s host, Trevor Noah. With his signature humor and insight, Noah explores the themes of family and identity while shedding light on the country’s racist policies. His smooth, soothing voice makes this audiobook perfect for long car rides.
The A.I. Who Loved Me by Alyssa Cole
Trinity’s life takes an unexpected turn when she falls for her neighbor, Li Wei. Sure, love is difficult, but it becomes extra hard when the person you’ve fallen for is an advanced A.I. trying to learn to be human. Featuring a full cast of voice actors, this fast-paced science fiction novel will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Follow Harry and his friends as they attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and discover the power of love and friendship. This magical story will transport you to the sights and sounds of hilly Scotland, making any road trip more bearable.
As a bonus, the books are narrated by the exceptional Jim Dale whose ability to bring the characters to life is unparalleled.
The Lord of the Rings series by J.R.R. Tolkien
Hobbits Frodo and Sam embark on a dangerous quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth from the grip of darkness. This epic fantasy adventure is ideal for long road trips, as it’s filled with magic, wonder, and heroism, keeping you entertained for hours on the open road.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Welcome to Le Cirque des Rêves, the magical circus that appears only at night and without warning. Here, you’ll follow an enchanting duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, as they go from fierce competitors to lovers. The Night Circus is a great audiobook for escaping the dull reality of road trips and getting lost in a world of wonder.
The Institute by Stephen King
When Luke wakes up in a strange room, he has no idea that he’s been taken to the Institute – a place no one has ever escaped from. Trapped with him are other children with special abilities, all used for sinister purposes. Will they be able to escape before the Institute claims more victims?
King’s masterful storytelling will keep you hooked, making any long drive fly by.
A Walk in The Woods by Bill Bryson
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Appalachian Trail with a hilarious pair of hiking buddies, Bill Bryson and Stephen Katz. If you want your road trip to be filled with laughter and good times for the whole family, this book is the right choice.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter witnesses the fatal shooting of her best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer, sending her world into a tailspin. As she seeks justice for Khalil’s death, Starr must confront difficult truths about race and inequality. This thought-provoking coming-of-age story will keep you engaged throughout the duration of your drive.
Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust
Soraya, a princess cursed by a demon to be poisonous to the touch, must decide whether to stay hidden in her garden or risk everything for her freedom and true self. This utterly original fairy tale is your one-way ticket to a magical world vastly different from the long road ahead.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
The former First Lady’s memoir takes you on a journey from her childhood in Chicago to the White House. Her story is filled with valuable insights into the challenges Black women, career women, and mothers face every day. If you’re looking for some inspiration and motivation during a long drive, this Audie award winner should be your go-to choice.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Kya Clark, a girl living in the North Carolina marshlands, has always been an outsider due to her poverty and wild nature. Searching for a beautiful love story, she becomes entangled with two young men from town, leading to a tragic turn of events. This suspenseful page-turner will make any drive more interesting.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Evelyn Hugo, a reclusive movie icon, will take you back to the Golden Age of Hollywood. This juicy tale of love and betrayal narrated by Julia Whelan is the perfect distraction for a long drive.
Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain
In his hilarious and shocking memoir, Chef Anthony Bourdain takes you on a wild culinary journey, from his early adventures in France to his life on the New York City culinary scene. Bourdain’s colorful language and witty commentary will keep you entertained non-stop.
Bossypants by Tina Fey
In Bossypants, Tina Fey shares fun stories about her life before and after becoming a successful comedian. Fey’s humorous anecdotes will have you belly laughing, making it the perfect audiobook for a family road trip.
Yes Please by Amy Poehler
If you’re travelling alone, Yes Please will make you feel like you’re on the road with a good friend. You’ll join Amy Poehler as she talks about her life, complete with personal stories, advice, and of course, plenty of laughs.
No more boring road trips with Speechify
Whether you’re in the mood for a captivating fairy tale like Girl, Serpent, Thorn or something more ominous like The Institute, you can count on Speechify.
Speechify is the leading audiobook provider with an impressive library of titles packed with bestsellers. Thanks to a well-thought-out design and categorization, you’ll have no issues finding your next favorite audiobook. Speechify’s library has it all, so your entire family can have fun during a road trip, whether travelling with a child, a young adult, or an elderly loved one.
Download Speechify today and find the best audiobook for your next road trip.
FAQ
What are the benefits of listening to a book on tape?
Listening to books on tape has many benefits, including improving your literacy skills, sharpening your focus, and helping with time management.
What is the name of the author of Road Trip USA?
Jamie Jensen, an American writer, is the author of Road Trip USA.
