The good people at the Internet Archive and Librivox have brought us a large collection of free audiobooks of classic novels -- in fact there are over 9,000 to choose from in their library. So I've taken it upon myself to weed out some of the best: the clearest readings, those with single readers (to avoid confusion), and just appealing books in general.
1. "Moby Dick"
"Moby Dick" (also known as "The Whale") by Herman Melville is a narration by a sailor named Ishmael, following the tale of Ahab, the obsessive captain of the whaling ship Pequod. Ahab is after a great white whale by the name of Moby Dick who destroyed his previous ship and severed his leg at the knee. Over 900 pages, it can be a little daunting to pick up. Thankfully, Librivox has this wonderful audiobook version that you can download and listen to on the go.
2. "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer"
This classic story by Mark Twain has become one of America's most well-known novels. Following the adventurous childhoods of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn in St. Petersburg, Miss., the novel harkens back to the American South of the late 1800s. A story of boyhood and mischief, this audiobook can add a little spark to any day.
3. "Pride and Prejudice"
Easily one of Jane Austen's most popular novels, "Pride and Prejudice" follows the romance of two stubborn lovers in the early 19th century in England. Through their love, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy learn that sometimes pride and prejudice must be compromised to be with the one you love. Full of lively, intricate characters, this story can melt any heart and leave any reader swooning, with hearts in their eyes.
4. "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn"
If you've already fallen in love with Twain's "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," make sure you listen to the heartwarming tale "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." This story follows "Huck" Finn (who you'll remember as Tom Sawyer's partner in crime in "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer") and his friend Jim as they travel down the Mississippi River.
5. "Great Expectations"
One of Charles Dickens' classic coming-of-age novels, "Great Expectations" follows orphan Pip, his quest for greatness, and all of the wild characters he meets on the way. Like many Dickensian triumphs, this novel introduces intricate characters and settings that an audiobook can easily bring to life.
6. "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz"
No doubt you've seen the movie, but the actual story of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" may surprise you in its distinctness from the film. MGM certainly took quite a few liberties when they created the famous film, so even if you think you know the story like the back of your hand, the real tale is worth a read.
7. "Treasure Island"
A classic tale of adventure and the high seas, "Treasure Island" is a coming-of-age novel famous for its characters, action, and settings. If you're interested in pirates, quests for treasure, and a whole lot of excitement, sit yourself down and have a listen.
8. "The Secret Garden"
A story that molded the childhoods of many, "The Secret Garden" is a heartwarming and heart-wrenching novel that follows spoiled orphan Mary Lennox as she enters the care of her withdrawn uncle. Drawn to the secrets of the house, Mary learns a great deal about growing up and helping others.
