Bedtime reading is one of life's simple pleasures and, with our busy modern lifestyles, it’s easy to overlook the things that matter most. While hours of screen time can take their toll, nodding off to these somnolent sounds will have you feeling rested and fresh.
We’ve curated a list of soothing audiobooks to tuck you in and wish you goodnight, from mindful meditations to childhood tales, all to help you to get some well-deserved shut-eye.
1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Book 1 Audiobook | J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter had never even heard of Hogwarts when letters start arriving at his childhood home. Yet on his eleventh birthday, a giant beetle-eyed man bursts in with astonishing news: Harry is a wizard, and he has a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where an incredible adventure is just about to begin.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone is the first in a series of fantasy novels written by British author J. K. Rowling. It chronicles the lives of three young wizards, Harry, Ron and Hermione, as they learn to become wizards and struggle against the evil Lord Voldemort.
Narrated by Stephen Fry, the official audiobook series is faithful to the original and will engage your imagination as a fresh approach to a childhood classic. It’s the perfect nostalgic title for bedtime reading.
2. Becoming Audiobook | Michelle Obama
Becoming is an intimate and inspiring memoir narrated by the former First Lady of the United States, based on her bestselling book. It tells the story of Michelle Obama, from her origins on the South Side of Chicago to her years in law and finally her role as a powerful advocate for public health and women's rights. Narrated by the former First Lady herself, the audiobook describes both her triumphs and her shortfalls, in public and private, telling the story as she lived it.
This title is perfect for late-night inspiration, with Michelle Obama’s trademark charismatic and intimate approach to storytelling ideally suited for those who enjoy a bedtime audiobook. Relax, unwind and enjoy each moment as Michelle explores her life and reflects on her personal story of becoming Michelle Obama.
3. Mythos Audiobook | Stephen Fry
Lose yourself in the wonder of Greek myths in this vivid retelling of the ancient classics. It’s a world of magic, monsters, heroes and demi-gods based on ancient Greek mythology, narrated by classicist and all-round national treasure Stephen Fry.
Familiar stories are reinvigorated by Fry as Athena, patron of Athens, is born from the great head of Zeus, Pandora opens her infamous box of evil spirits and more. Many tales have become timeless, while others have been lost in the ether. Stephen narrates each story with vigour and gusto, immersing you in the action and sharing his passion for the past.
4. Sherlock Holmes: The Definitive Collection Audiobook | Arthur Conan Doyle, Stephen Fry
Audible is proud to present Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes: The Definitive Collection, read by Stephen Fry. Since the first moment, Sherlock Holmes has enthralled and delighted millions of fans throughout the world. Considered the original and definitive masterpiece of detective fiction, the Sherlock Holmes series has stood the test of time and remains popular bedtime reading around the world.
As a lifelong fan, Fry narrates the complete works of Sherlock Holmes – four novels and five collections of short stories, with nine insightful, intimate, and deeply personal introductions to each title. So even if you are familiar with the tales, you’ll find something new to enjoy in these popular bedtime stories.
5. In Search of Black History with Bonnie Greer
In Search Of Black History, with playwright Bonnie Greer brings you eye to eye with the forgotten history of African Civilization. From religious figures to warriors, philosophers, kings and saints, Greer narrates lesser known tales in their original form with a passion that captures the imagination and is sure to engage your curiosity.
In this exclusive Audible Original Podcast, you’ll meet the unheard and the erased characters of Black History. Alongside Bonnie are the academics and experts on the frontline who are uncovering the past and bringing it to the attention of the modern audience. In this eight-part series, as the former Trustee of the British Museum, Bonnie takes us through the ages, guided by her rich, comfortingly soft voice. She will take you from the earliest glimmerings of modern humanity, up to the present day. In Search Of Black History, unwinds an intricate story that will inspire and feed your desire to learn.
6. Grown Ups Audiobook | Marian Keyes
They're a glamorous family, the Caseys. Johnny Casey, his two brothers Ed and Liam, their beautiful, talented wives and all their kids spend a lot of time together – birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, weekends away. And they're a happy family. Johnny's wife, Jessie, who has the most money, insists on it.
Under the surface, though, conditions are murkier. While some people clash, other people like each other too much. Everything stays under control until Ed's wife Cara gets a concussion and can't keep her thoughts to herself. One careless remark at Johnny's birthday party, with the entire family present, starts Cara spilling out all their secrets. In the subsequent unravelling, every one of the adults finds themselves wondering if it's time finally to grow up?
From the best-selling author of The Break and The Woman Who Stole My Life, this hilarious new novel has been faithfully reproduced in audiobook form, making it the perfect treat as you head to sleep.
7. Why We Sleep Audiobook | Matthew Walker
We all know sleep is important. But that doesn’t mean we get enough of it. Now, in the first book of its kind written by a scientific expert, Professor Matthew Walker explores 20 years of cutting-edge research to solve the mystery of Why We Sleep. In doing so, he explains its impact on life, health and longevity and the devastating consequences of deprivation on Alzheimer's, cancer, obesity, diabetes and more.
Until very recently, science had no answer to the question of Why We Sleep, what good it serves or why its absence is so damaging to our health. But Matthew draws together decades of cutting-edge research to present the definitive word on the subject. In doing so, he looks at everything from how caffeine, alcohol and REM can affect sleep. All of which makes it the perfect audiobook to encourage you to get under the covers.
8. Matilda Audiobook | Roald Dahl
Matilda by Roald Dahl is a childhood classic that has retained its power to delight and entertain children and adults for generations. Telling the tale of a precocious young mind, nurtured by a loving and dedicated teacher, Matilda is narrated by award-winning actress Kate Winslet, whose standout roles have included Titanic, Finding Neverland, and The Reader.
Despite the beastly grownups trying to push her down, Matilda is an extraordinary girl with a magical mind. It’s a hopeful and uplifting tale that deals with the subject of childhood dreams and conveys a positive message for us all.
9. Wolf Hall Audiobook | Hilary Mantel
In 1520s England, Henry VIII is on the throne but has no heir. Cardinal Wolsey is his chief advisor, charged with securing the divorce the pope refuses to grant. Into this atmosphere of distrust and need comes Thomas Cromwell, first in Wolsey's employment and later his successor.
Cromwell is a wholly original man: the son of a brutal blacksmith, a political genius, a briber, a charmer, a bully and a man with a delicate but deadly expertise in manipulating people and events. Ruthless in pursuit of his masters’ interests, he is as ambitious for them as he is for himself. His reforming agenda is carried out in the grip of a self-interested parliament and a king who fluctuates between romantic passions and murderous rages.
From one of our finest living writers, Wolf Hall is a truly great English novel that explores the intersection of history, psychology and politics. With a vast array of characters and brimming with incident, it's the perfect historical fiction to send you off to the land of nod.
10. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine Audiobook | Gail Honeyman
Eleanor Oliphant leads a simple life. She wears the same clothes to work every day, eats the same meal deal for lunch every day and nothing is missing from her carefully timetabled life. Except, sometimes, everything.
One simple act of kindness is about to shatter the walls Eleanor has built around herself. As events unfold, she must learn how to navigate the world that everyone else seems to take for granted, while searching for the courage to face the dark corners she's avoided all her life.
Based on the Costa Prize-winning novel, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is a charming and enjoyable tale of modern life that makes the perfect start to any bedtime routine.
Check out our collection of audio experiences designed to invite relaxation and sleep.
