Top Audiobook Picks for Tweens and Teens: Must-Read Series to Fuel Their Imagination
If your tween or teen is hooked on a particular series (Harry Potter, anyone?) and you’re searching for their next book obsession — you’re in the right place. 📚
We asked our wonderful home ed community to share which books their 12+ kids genuinely loved — especially those available as audiobooks. The results? A treasure trove of thrilling reads, clever characters, and plenty of ways to listen for free.
Whether your child is into magical worlds, spy adventures, or dystopian drama, there’s something here to feed their imagination.
🎧 Free (and Easy) Audiobook Options
🥇 Most Recommended Book Series for 12+ (Based on Real Mentions)
These are the series everyone’s kids seem to love — especially on audio:
- Percy Jackson (Rick Riordan)
A top pick among home ed families. These fast-paced, funny adventures weave Greek mythology into the modern world. Perfect for fans of Harry Potter who want something action-packed but still full of heart.
- Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling)
Still a staple in many households. Whether they’re reading for the first time or relistening on audio, these stories remain a comforting favourite. A great way to build listening stamina.
- Northern Lights & The Book of Dust (Philip Pullman)
A magical world of demons and parallel universes. Start with Northern Lights (from the His Dark Materials trilogy).
If they love it, The Book of Dust trilogy is a deeper dive with more mature themes.
- Ranger’s Apprentice (John Flanagan)
Adventure, archery, and a dash of humour. This series is easy to get into and ideal for kids who love training sequences, friendships, and medieval-style action.
- Skandar and the Unicorn Thief (A.F. Steadman)
Not your average unicorn tale — think flying creatures, fierce battles, and secrets. Newer to the scene but getting lots of love from tweens in the home ed world.
- The School for Good and Evil (Soman Chainani)
Classic fairytales get flipped upside down in this fantasy series where villains and heroes train side by side. Quirky, stylish, and a hit with fans of magical schools and big questions about good and evil.
- Artemis Fowl (Eoin Colfer)
Meet a 12-year-old criminal mastermind in this clever, fast-talking sci-fi fantasy mix. High-tech fairies, secret plots, and one of the most unique young protagonists out there.
- Alex Rider (Anthony Horowitz)
Spies, gadgets, and nonstop suspense. If your child loves James Bond-style adventures or action-packed mysteries, this series will keep them gripped.
- The Hunger Games (Suzanne Collins)
Set in a dystopian future where survival is everything. Older or more mature readers tend to connect with the strong characters and deep themes — ideal for discussion.
- Nevermoor Series (Jessica Townsend)
Start with The Trials of Morrigan Crow. Full of magic, mystery, and humour, this series has been compared to Harry Potter but with its own unique charm. Great for kids who love quirky world-building
📚 Other Brilliant Mentions from the Community
- Swallows and Amazons – Gentle adventure, ideal for sparking real-life exploration.
- Discworld (Terry Pratchett) – Witty and wise. Try The Colour of Magic or Hogfather first.
- The Hobbit – A perfect stepping stone into Tolkien’s world.
- The Dark Is Rising series (Susan Cooper) – Mysterious and myth-laced.
Tom Gates (Liz Pichon) – Graphic novel fun, especially for reluctant readers. - When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit (Judith Kerr) – Thoughtful, accessible, based on true events.
- The Phantom Tollbooth (Norton Juster) – Wordplay-filled and whimsical.
- The Summoner series (Taran Matharu) – Fantasy with a bit of grit.
- Cogheart (Peter Bunzl) – Steampunk mystery meets friendship goals.
🎧 Bonus Listening: Podcasts for Young Teens
Audiobooks aren’t the only way to enjoy great stories! Podcasts can be a fantastic, screen-free option for teens — perfect for car rides, quiet time, or just winding down.
An age-appropriate, story-rich roleplay podcast with over 80 episodes. Set in a world of skyships and daring deliveries, it’s full of friendship, adventure, and heart.
Greeking Out (National Geographic Kids)
Funny, well-produced tales from Greek mythology — ideal if they’ve enjoyed Percy Jackson. Educational without feeling like school.
A science podcast co-hosted by curious kids and expert guests. Great for sparking discussions and following those “but why?” questions we love in home ed life.
The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel
Told by kids, for kids — this mystery series has won awards for a reason. Think Stranger Things meets Scooby-Doo, but safe and suitable for ages 10–14.
💡Tip: You can listen via podcast apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or even directly through your browser.
Final Thought: There’s Always a Next Favourite
From myth-filled quests to futuristic spies, the perfect story is out there waiting. These recommendations come straight from real families, so you know they’re tried and tested in home ed life.
Which books or podcasts have your kids loved? Drop a comment below — or tag us on social media with your top picks!
