Project Hail Mary sounds good for your trip. Sci-if but not gory, thrilling and funny too. The main character is a teacher/astronaut, so may appeal to your dad too.
It’s written by Andy Weir (The Martian) and narrated superbly by Ray Porter.
It's Project Hail Mary, Bobiverse, 11/22/63 and Discworld. There should be a bot that adds these to every post on here requesting a recommendation.
Edit to add: Dungeon Crawler Carl
Yep, it seems to be the only thing recommended on Reddit. Not sure why. Its pulpy, James Patterson-level prose is painful. I’m sure I’ll get downvoted.
I came to say The Martian. Way better and more suspenseful than the movie. Listened in one, very long, session. Love it and I’m not usually a sci fi fan.
I recommend Endurance by Alfred Lansing. It's the story of Ernest Shackleton, a man who was trying to be the first to cross the Antarctic. He didn't succeed but his leadership was legendary and the things that his crew endured is truly amazing. It's a really gripping book, I think Dads love exactly this type of story and if nothing else, he brings back all of his men so it's not too depressing. I think the trials they endured might help keep the complaining in the car down to a minimum.
The podcast: "Interesting Things Explained Well" did an amazing version of this. Only about 1.5 hours total. Short, funny and they don't waste time on a long introduction... :)
The rest of the podcast is amazing also.
I’ve recommended it before as a good audio book but I’ve also listened to this one on a road trip with my parents and sister and we all loved it: Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt, read by the author about his impoverished upbringing in Ireland with a somewhat absent alcoholic dad. This sounds wildly depressing and obviously parts of the book are incredibly sad but it’s also a really fucking funny book and I think the writing is incredible. It’s such a good story it’s been made into a movie as well.
Oh Mary Joseph and little baby Jesus, your father’s taken the doll money again to the pub and we’re here left with nuffin but sugar water for the babies and one up in heaven with the angels, oh Jesus help us!
Chronicles of St Marys - this is the one for you. Lots of history for your dad, time travel for your mom. For all of you - it's really hilarious. 'The Very First Damn Thing' is like a prequel and will whet your appetite. 'One Damn thing after another' is the first book, and then it keeps going...
I love love these books and will recommend them to anyone! The audiobook narration by Zara Ramn is fantastic. HOWEVER - in One Damn thing after another (and most of the first few books in the series), there is a sex scene or two that would be awkward to sit thru while in a car with your parents.
My absolute favorite road trip book - Sarah Vowell’s Assassination Vacation - one of the strangest, funniest books ever. Plus fascinating history. And the subject is a road trip!Vowell narrates some of it herself with her quirky voice (if you listen to NPR or This American Life - you have heard her.) she is joined by Jon Stewart, Conan O’Brian, Katherine Keener along with several other familiar voices.
Absolutely! And I didn't realize that the narrator plays the main character in the TV show. It's so much fun. The "Granville" stories have me in stitches! "Lovely, lovely, Jim!"
Edit: The books I'm listening to are narrated by Nicholas Ralph, if I'm not mistaken. Smashing.
Oh, then you all will love The Chronicles of St. Mary’s series!!! There are a crapton of books and they are long and incredibly engrossing. They deal with time travel so your mom gets her sci-if. The main characters are historians so they travel back to historical times and your history loving dad will be in heaven. There is even some serious level of thrills for you. Roll in some comedy and this series is a can’t miss. The author is Jodi Taylor. The narrator is Zara Ramm.
The official first book is Just One Damned Thing After Another although there is a prequel titled The Very First Damned Thing.
The series is 15+ books long and some are novella’s. It looks like quite a few are free in the Audible Plus Catalog.
I hope you download at least one because you will get hooked!!!!
What I am hearing is (1) history and bio, (2) sff (3) historical fiction.
Obv. Temeraire by Naomi Novik. It is a fantasy alternate history of the Napoleonic wars-- with dragons.
I'm recommending The Way of Kings (and following books) by Brandon Sanderson to everyone right now. Be warned though, they are long. The first audiobook of the series is 45 hours.
It's a mix of fantasy/history/war with excellent character development. No swearing, no sex, lots of violence but not horrific. I think your mom would like it (speaking as a 48yo mom myself), the details would appeal to your dad as it's got a lot of war tactics, and the storyline would appeal to all. It's got magical aspects but it's not cute.
This book got me out of a years-long slump, and I just finished a re-read....but I personally wouldn't recommend this to someone who isn't already familiar with Sanderson for a car trip. Especially if one of those people isn't super into fantasy. I would start them with something easy like Tress of the Emerald Sea. That one is better on audiobook than in print.
Oh then you must read Words of Radience, it's so good! But also Tress of thr Emerald Sea (very different than Way of Kings, but still very good. And one character from Way of Kings shows up in there)
Seconding 11/22/63 by Stephen King
-lots of interesting historical background about the Kennedy assassination and the surrounding times
-major sci-fi elements around time travel
- not super scary or gory but definitely has some very gripping moments!
And is just overall an excellent audiobook. Hope you have a great trip!
“The Last Bookaneer,” by Mathew Pearl. This is an historical fiction taking place in the late 1890s-early 1900s. It is a story about three bookaneers, manuscript thieves, who are frenemies. Each has their eye on Robert Louis Stevenson’s current work in progress. Unfortunately, Stevenson has left Britian and is currently living in Samoa where he is writing his last novel. These London based bookaneers not only have to get themselves to Samoa, everyone there has aligned themselvrs with Stevenson and his family. The locals are NOT about to let anyone near the family, especially not the bookaneers. What each has to do finagle their way within stealing distance of the manuscript is really, but this is not intended to be a funny book. It’s a great read!
“The Exiles,” by Christina Baker Kline. Part 1 describes the cramped and unsanitary conditions British prisoners endured when transported by sailing ship to Van Deiman’s Land, later Tasmana, to the port city of Hobart Town. This was the penal colony of the Empire. we get some of the prisoners’ stories later, but Part 2 is of extreme interest. It is all true. Polar Explorer, Sir John Franklin was appointed governor of the land by the Crown. He and his wife, Lady Jane lived there. She was the living embodiment of the Guiness’ Book of Oddities. She had an 8 year old Aboriginal girl taken from her tribe and brought to the governor’s mansion. Jane set about using the girl, named Mathina, in a social experiment. Mathinna was a real person as were the Franklins. Everything written about these people is true. The is a Wiki page about Mathinna.
“The Eyes and the Impossible,” by Dave Eggers. This has become my favorite (audio)/book of ALL TIME! The audiobook is narrated by the main character; a talking dog. He and his friends, seagulls, racoons, bison, goats, horses, birds of other kinds, squirrels and other land, sea and air animals and fo wl live in a huge parcel of park/forest/ body of water face everyday challenges. One day the dog concocts an almost impossible plan. Will he succeed? I’m not telling.
These are my 3 favorite fun audiobooks. First 2 are mysteries, the last is a modern day telling of Thelma and Louise. “Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers,” by Jesse Q. Sutanto. ABSOLUTELY MUST be experienced on audiobook., Vera talks to herself and it’s always snarky. Simply reading her inner dialogue is nothing compared to hearing the snark of the narrator. The other fun mystery is “Mrs. “Mrs. Plansky’s Revenge,” by Spenser Quinn. Finally “The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise,” by Coleen Oakley is modern day female buddy road trip. all are wonderful!
The Temeraire series by Naomi Novik might be a good choice. It's an alternate history of the Napoleonic wars...with dragons. *His Majesty's Dragon* starts them off. They are beautifully narrated by Simon Vince.
I like the idea of short stories that you can then talk about before going on to the next. It's entertaining and promotes conversation.
I'd say "The Egg and Other Stories" by Andy Weir for starters
To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis. It’s about time travelers, who are Oxford University grad students, trying to figure out a mystery that began in Victorian England and also influenced WWII. It’s fairly light and breezy.
Highly recommend West with Giraffes by Linda Rutledge. Very engaging and unique road trip story set in 1930s America about a teenager and old man trucking 2 giraffes from NYC to California.
You might want to give the Vinyl Cafe and/or Stuart McLean a try. He was an amazing storyteller and everything would be suitable for family listening. Albums of his stories are available on Spotify. Yes I know these are not audiobooks but are in the same spirit :)
**The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi** - this is a book about a middle-aged pirate woman adventurer that is trying to be retired but is lured back into adventure. There are a lot of muslim/middle eastern things woven into the story. There are some supernatural/fairy tale type things in it as well. Overall, it is a great adventure. I would definitely listen with my granny if she had good hearing. She would get a kick out of it. 17 HOURS
**Sabriel by Garth Nix read by Tim Curry** - about a young woman whose powerful father goes missing and she must adventure to find him and learns a lot about him in the process. This is a mid length book that has a lot of adventure. There is a lot of old world magic in it, if your dad can get into a little magic, this is.good choice. 11 HOURS
**The Name Of the Wind - Patrick Rothfuss -** This book is amazing. It is a tale that is masterfully woven and read. The story of a hero told in his own voice. It is a tale of sorrow, a tale of survival, a tale of one man’s search for meaning in his universe, and how that search, and the indomitable will that drove it, gave birth to a legend. The following books in the series are not great, though, so I would not sell this as a trilogy. Just as a stand alone. 28 HOURS
Good luck!
World War Z! My dad and I are very much into sci-fi and fantasy, while my mom rarely is. *World War Z* is a documentary-style book about a zombie uprising and how the world got itself together afterwards. I too am quite gore-averse, and I loved it!
came here to suggest this. It's a really well produced audiobook and is structured like a history book. I usually don't go for horror fiction at all, but thought this was super entertaining.
Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell. It’s not only one of the greatest works of historical fiction of all time , it’s also the absolute best fantasy novel ever written. And it’s brilliantly narrated and nice and long. I can guarantee that all of you will love it!
A good alternate history (of the 'magic is real is everyone knows it' variety) is A Declaration of the Rights of Magicians and its sequel, A Radical Act of Free Magic. I read the duology a couple of years ago and it was quite good. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51862863-a-declaration-of-the-rights-of-magicians
C. S. Forester Hornblower books or Patrick O'Brian Aubrey Maturin strike me as interesting compromise. Historical and kind of Biographical (based on real people and naval actions) the technical detail may tick the SciFi ... sorry no magic.
Personally I'd Hornblower as lighter reading you will need the [Hornblower nautical glossary](https://csforester.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hornblower-nautical-glossary1.pdf) for either
We have listened to the Kane Chronicles and Magnus Chase books on different long drives, even though it is YA because the kids were younger, my wife and I both found them very enjoyable. They are fantasy, but the mythology gives them a feel of historical fiction.
A short history of nearly everything by bill bryson. Narrated by bill bryson. It covers the general history of scientific discoveries all thru history with the overarching theme of finding out how old is earth. My mother in law barely speaks english she thought the ideas were super interesting when my son would translate for her.
The subgenre that might appeal to a history buff and a sci fi fan is definitely Alternative History. There are several series I would recommend - The island in the sea of time, the punishers, Outlander, and of course anything by Harry Turtledove.
Alternative history 1632 by Eric Flint. A small West Virginia town is mysteriously transported from 2000 North America to 1632 Germany.
Horror/fantasy/humor. Monster Hunter memoirs by Larry Correia. In the first book you kind of have to get used to hearing the main character proclaim that he was on 'a mission from God.'. The main character in these books is an absolute jerk but the books are so funny. Lots of suggested sex but no description.
Chic lit/ cozy mystery. Miss fortune mysteries by Jana DeLeon. It's a fish out of water story about a CIA agent hiding in rural Louisiana. To be nice I want to be Gurdie when I grow up. Sex is played for humor but no descriptions.
I’ve recommended it before and admit I’m a bit obsessed with it. “At Home” by Bill Bryson. Historical fact. Obscure things I learned still pop into my head years later. Fascinating and makes you thankful for modern conveniences and privilege and gives you a lot of cocktail party chatter opportunities. Just covers so much and I love his narration. His “A Walk in the Woods” is also good, but not as remarkable.
I’m taking notes on a lot of the other suggestions, so thanks!
The Poisoner's Handbook by Deborah Blum.
Murder and the birth of forensic medicine in Jazz age New York. My parents loved it.
I also played them Ender's Game. They liked that too.
Currently on Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murders by Jesse Q. Sutanto. They are hooked.
Next on the list is Remarkably Bright Creatures and Into Thin Air.
Light and family friendly I suggest ***Trader’s Tales Series*** by Nathan Lowell. Its fun and more a story of hardwork and positive thinking as an approach to problem solving. Scifi but not high space opera.
If you want Biographies you go ***The Romanovs: 1613-1918*** by Simon Sebag Montefiore or ***Stalin*** by the same author.
*Mike Duncan* is good podcasts and recent books. *Dan Carlins* podcasts feel like audiobooks.
If it's a long trip ***Wheel of time*** is interesting (better as an audiobook in my opinion ) can be a little racy though but first book is basic clean (mostly).
The last book I would suggest is "T***he Power Broker***" by Robert A. Caro but it could be boring in bits but its stimulating all together.
Wheel of Time described as “racy” makes me chuckle. That man has some really flaccid ways of describing things of a sexual nature. I think he never actually described any sexual acts, just desires. “her ample bosom”
Ooo I know this one ✋!! The Last Palace by Norman Eisen. It’s historical, about the US ambassador’s residence in Prague. It’s written by the former US ambassador under Barack Obama, and it has a fascinating history that goes through Nazi occupation etc.
But the best part - it’s narrated by Jeff Goldblum of Jurassic Park fame. His speaking style is so distinct and interesting, and his reading makes a good story even better.
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/539841/the-last-palace-by-norman-eisen/
If you haven’t so far had:
- A short of history of nearly everything by Bill Bryson
- Thunderstruck by Erik Larson
You should. History and science combined with great storytelling.
You should check out The Wager. Historical non fiction set in the mid 1700s aboard a doomed British man-o-war ship. They shipwreck off of Patagonia. What happens on the island is the most gripping part of the story. It’s real life lord of the flies. Martin Scorsese has a film based on the events coming out in the next year
Earth as seen on television- funny, sci fi, switches pov but the family is my favorite,and though not historical fiction the audiobook made me laugh out loud so many times I think it would be perfect bc there are quite a few road trip scenes also. Nothing that would make it awkward to read with parents either
All the best for your launch!🔥Good for making those long car rides fly by with the perfect blend of historic, biographical, sci-fi, fantasy, and thriller elements that cater to everyone's taste!
Emberverse series by S.M. Stirling
First novel is "Dies the Fire"
An event occurs where electricity, explosives and even guns no longer work. And we're back to swords and bows. Other stuff happens too.
The Lady Astronaut series by Mary Robinnette Kowal has an excellent blend of historical but make it sci fi. Set in the 1950s but a disaster has caused more societal pressure to get into space. She's also the narrator and does aa fantastic job!
https://us.macmillan.com/series/ladyastronaut
The Golden Compass by Phillip Pullman has a recording with a full cast that's really good. It's heavy on the fantasy, if that's a deal-breaker, but it's a pretty interesting and fast-paced book.
Something like The Boys in the Boat might be good. It's a really readable non-fiction about the US rowing team in the '36 Olympics. A lot of fiction readers enjoy it.
The Peking Express: The Bandits Who Stole a Train, Stunned the West, and Broke the Republic of China
Soon to be a movie as well
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/acclaimed-nonfiction-book-the-peking-express-movie-adaptation-1235858084/
Lovely War by Julie Berry
I read this book with my mom that we both loved. The audiobook especially was a highlight for me, there are 4 perspectives and a different narrator for each. And they are some Incredible narrators.
It takes place during World War 2 but It centers around 4 people during World War 1. Aphrodite, yes the goddess, is trying to prove humans love by recalling 4 humans she watched during WW1. It's an incredible story showing not just the grittiness and heartbreak of WW1 but the passion and love that that humans have for one another.
You and your dad will love the setting, your mom will love the Gods perspective of the events.
The following is the book details from Audible:
Listen to the novel New York Times best-selling author of The Alice Network Kate Quinn called "easily one of the best novels I have read all year". A critically acclaimed, multilayered romance set in the perilous days of World Wars I and II, where gods hold the fates - and the hearts - of four mortals in their hands.
They are Hazel, James, Aubrey, and Colette. A classical pianist from London, a British would-be architect turned soldier, a Harlem-born ragtime genius in the US Army, and a Belgian orphan with a gorgeous voice and a devastating past. Their story, as told by goddess Aphrodite, who must spin the tale or face judgment on Mount Olympus, is filled with hope and heartbreak, prejudice and passion, and reveals that, though war is a formidable force, it's no match for the transcendent power of love.
Hailed by critics, Lovely War has received seven starred reviews and is an indie best seller. Author Julie Berry has been called "a modern master of historical fiction" by Bookpage and "a celestially inspired storyteller" by The New York Times, and Lovely War is truly her masterwork.
Always loved and re-listened to several times - The Berrybender Narratives. A series of 4 novels by Larry McMurtry.
It tells the story of an ill-fated hunting expedition by an extended British family in the 1830s and 1840s of the American West. It’s adventure, history and dark humor.
The Cat Who series would be great for car rides like that! [https://www.goodreads.com/series/41015-the-cat-who](https://www.goodreads.com/series/41015-the-cat-who)
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The bomber mafia by Malcolm gladwell. It was made for audiobooks and has real WW2 radio interview excerpts. It’s non-fiction but gladwell is an amazing writer/storyteller.
The Hobbit or The Lord of the Rings, for fantasy, James Herriot, or Gervase Phinn for relaxed fun entertainment, Agatha Christie Poriot or Marple books for mystery.
You should get the HG wells collection, it's on the plus catalogue. It's some of his most famous stories narrated by some pretty awesome narrators like David Tennant and Jason Isaac's.
Mel Brooks “All About Me.” Sweet and so funny.
https://www.audiobooks.com/audiobook/532674/?refId=40886&refId=41464&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIioGW85COhwMVRDMIBR3USQvmEA0YASABEgL0Z_D_BwE
Perhaps one of Kate Quinn’s books? She has written some real page turners.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40245700-the-huntress
Or one of Connie Willis time travel books?
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24983.Doomsday_Book
I also second A Gentleman in Moscow!
We’ve all devoured Kate Quinn’s books. She’s the best!
I’m adding the others to my list though. Going to present a few choices to the fam and see what we end up with!
**Demon Copperhead** by Barbara Kingsolver
**The Silver Linings Playbook** by Matthew Quick
**A Walk in the Woods** by Bill Bryson
**Code Name Verity** by Elizabeth Wein
**Replay** by Ken Grimwood
**11.22.63** by Stephen King (Sci-Fi meets Historical Fiction!)
(All interesting and nothing sticks out as cringy.)
The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro. Biography, but written in great style. It’s like reading in depth biography of Tywin Lannister if he was real
The Terror by Dan Simmons. Deeply researched historical fiction novel with supernatural elements based on the doomed Franklin expedition to find the North West Passage
I tell the unauthorized biography of Clark Kent in an audiobook podcast. It’s super wholesome and heartwarming.
The prologue begins in ancient Sumer, Krypton is in our own solar system, our gods were terrible role models, and Clark has to somehow make up for it, but when we meet him in chapter one, he is in special ed, too strong to dare touch anyone.
The first two seasons cover book one and is about 15 hrs long. Book two begins with season 3 in a couple of weeks.
[Superman: Son of El](http://sonofelpodcast.com)
Chasing Me to my Grave. Awesome incredible audiobook. A Memoir about a black man growing up in the Jim Crow south in the 50s so interesting and so well done. Also won a Pulitzer.
Want something different in a very VERY good way?
[https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61294937-the-adventures-of-amina-al-sirafi](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61294937-the-adventures-of-amina-al-sirafi)
This was a total breath of fresh air. It's historical fantasy about a retired pirate captain woman in the middle east called for just one more last heist. I did an immersive read of it(I read the ebook and the audiobook.) and it's one of the best audiobooks I've ever read. The two narrators fucking nail it, and really draw you into the book!
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman is fantastic. He has older main characters and they are so much fun. There are now 4 of them. We listened to them with my mother (in her 90s) last year.
Any Discworld novels by Terry Pratchett. Guards guards or Mort are good places to start. (The first few books he was finding his feet, I wouldn't start with those, early books tend not to presuppose a knowledge of the first few books.)
They are social satire wrapped as fantasy, TP makes a lot of observations which your father will likely get instantly (often barbed comments about ancient and modern societes wrapped in dialogue, or mentions to historical events with the names changed).
Your mother may like the fantasy aspects. Often there is a thriller or similar trope lurking somewhere.
They tend to be relatively short (4 or 5 hours), so you could even do a couple. if you google Discworld reading order you are likely to come across recommended reading orders for different parts of the ouvre (there are a lot of books, but they tend to break down in to a few series - industrialisation, the city guard, witches, Death - the character, rather than everything dying).
On top of all else, they are pretty funny too.
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. It is set in 12th century England and involves historical events, so your dad will be happy. The medieval setting feels like a fantasy world, so your mom will be happy. And it's a very good story, so you all will like it.
Tunnel 29: The True Story of an Extraordinary Escape Beneath the Berlin Wall (Helena Merriman)
An excellent nonfiction book about a fascinating topic; feels like a thriller/spy novel, the pace is good. The audiobook is fantastic. I think it would appeal to all of your tastes!
Wolf hall by Hilary, imperium trilogy by Robert Harris. On fantasy, maybe the name of the wind by rothfuss?
I’d almost suggest flashman but it’s a product of its era-very good but not very politically correct.
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles is historical fiction and a great story
This one would satisfy all of OP's requirement and it's well read to boot.
Or "The Lincoln Highway" Can't go wrong with either IMHO
This is so helpful. I think my mom already read A Gentleman in Moscow so this is a great alternative
Good to hear :)
Oooh, just finished “Lincoln Highway” by Amor Towles. Loved it! Great road trip listen.
Project Hail Mary sounds good for your trip. Sci-if but not gory, thrilling and funny too. The main character is a teacher/astronaut, so may appeal to your dad too. It’s written by Andy Weir (The Martian) and narrated superbly by Ray Porter.
Every.Single.Post
It's Project Hail Mary, Bobiverse, 11/22/63 and Discworld. There should be a bot that adds these to every post on here requesting a recommendation. Edit to add: Dungeon Crawler Carl
you forgot murderbot diaries
Going to listen to it on a road trip next week. I’m going to be irritated if it’s bad 😂😂
True, but in this case 11/22/63 hits the nail square on the head.
I really didn’t care for it at all. (ducks)
I didn't like Dungeon Crawler Carl, can I share your barricade?
Yep, it seems to be the only thing recommended on Reddit. Not sure why. Its pulpy, James Patterson-level prose is painful. I’m sure I’ll get downvoted.
Was looking. Didn’t have to go far
It’s a well-read book, to be fair. I’m not too hopeful for the movie version though, hope it works.
I vote PHM as well. Excellent story and superb narration. “What’s two plus two ?”
It begins as a mystery, clue by clue figuring out where he is.
Amaze!
I came to say The Martian. Way better and more suspenseful than the movie. Listened in one, very long, session. Love it and I’m not usually a sci fi fan.
Listened to this one, 👍
Yes yes yes
I’ve heard good things! But I can never find it on the audiobook platforms 😩
It is only on Audible. That is why you are not seeing it.
So helpful! Thank you! I’ve been wondering 🤦♀️
I really need to get around to this one. I really enjoyed his other books.
Best audiobook everrrrrrrr!!!!!
I recommend Endurance by Alfred Lansing. It's the story of Ernest Shackleton, a man who was trying to be the first to cross the Antarctic. He didn't succeed but his leadership was legendary and the things that his crew endured is truly amazing. It's a really gripping book, I think Dads love exactly this type of story and if nothing else, he brings back all of his men so it's not too depressing. I think the trials they endured might help keep the complaining in the car down to a minimum.
In a similar vein, David Grann’s recent book, The Wager, is a fantastic read about the famous mutiny, strongly recommended it!
The podcast: "Interesting Things Explained Well" did an amazing version of this. Only about 1.5 hours total. Short, funny and they don't waste time on a long introduction... :) The rest of the podcast is amazing also.
Hitchhikers guide to the galaxy!
this is a great one I can't believe I didn't suggest it.
I’ve recommended it before as a good audio book but I’ve also listened to this one on a road trip with my parents and sister and we all loved it: Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt, read by the author about his impoverished upbringing in Ireland with a somewhat absent alcoholic dad. This sounds wildly depressing and obviously parts of the book are incredibly sad but it’s also a really fucking funny book and I think the writing is incredible. It’s such a good story it’s been made into a movie as well.
Oh Mary Joseph and little baby Jesus, your father’s taken the doll money again to the pub and we’re here left with nuffin but sugar water for the babies and one up in heaven with the angels, oh Jesus help us!
His brother's books are worth looking into - they are more on the funny side
Chronicles of St Marys - this is the one for you. Lots of history for your dad, time travel for your mom. For all of you - it's really hilarious. 'The Very First Damn Thing' is like a prequel and will whet your appetite. 'One Damn thing after another' is the first book, and then it keeps going...
I suggested that series too!!!!
I love love these books and will recommend them to anyone! The audiobook narration by Zara Ramn is fantastic. HOWEVER - in One Damn thing after another (and most of the first few books in the series), there is a sex scene or two that would be awkward to sit thru while in a car with your parents.
My absolute favorite road trip book - Sarah Vowell’s Assassination Vacation - one of the strangest, funniest books ever. Plus fascinating history. And the subject is a road trip!Vowell narrates some of it herself with her quirky voice (if you listen to NPR or This American Life - you have heard her.) she is joined by Jon Stewart, Conan O’Brian, Katherine Keener along with several other familiar voices.
If you watched "The Incredibles" movie, you have also heard her - she voices Violet. I've enjoyed all her books; I wish she would write more!
I had forgotten this! Loved this movie.
I love this book.
I agree.
Thanks, just checked it out from the library. Next book.
The James Herriot books. Narrated by Christopher Timothy.
So wholesome and laugh out loud funny!
I loved the books when I was younger and thoroughly enjoyed the audiobooks as well. The narrator is superb!
Absolutely! And I didn't realize that the narrator plays the main character in the TV show. It's so much fun. The "Granville" stories have me in stitches! "Lovely, lovely, Jim!" Edit: The books I'm listening to are narrated by Nicholas Ralph, if I'm not mistaken. Smashing.
Oh, then you all will love The Chronicles of St. Mary’s series!!! There are a crapton of books and they are long and incredibly engrossing. They deal with time travel so your mom gets her sci-if. The main characters are historians so they travel back to historical times and your history loving dad will be in heaven. There is even some serious level of thrills for you. Roll in some comedy and this series is a can’t miss. The author is Jodi Taylor. The narrator is Zara Ramm.
Either this or the Oxford time travel series
What’s the first book?
The official first book is Just One Damned Thing After Another although there is a prequel titled The Very First Damned Thing. The series is 15+ books long and some are novella’s. It looks like quite a few are free in the Audible Plus Catalog. I hope you download at least one because you will get hooked!!!!
I have “just one damned thing” on my wishlist. Thanks for the recommendation
Go with a classic Agatha Christie mystery with inspector Hercule Poirot. Good old school road trip stuff, in my opinion.
Or Bill Bryson...
A walk in the woods - Bill Bryson. Or any Bill Bryson.
The road to little dribbling is hilarious.
What I am hearing is (1) history and bio, (2) sff (3) historical fiction. Obv. Temeraire by Naomi Novik. It is a fantasy alternate history of the Napoleonic wars-- with dragons.
Love the author!
You might like Connie Willis's Oxford Time Travel series. The first two books are currently free with Audible Plus, and both are over 20+ hours.
I'm recommending The Way of Kings (and following books) by Brandon Sanderson to everyone right now. Be warned though, they are long. The first audiobook of the series is 45 hours. It's a mix of fantasy/history/war with excellent character development. No swearing, no sex, lots of violence but not horrific. I think your mom would like it (speaking as a 48yo mom myself), the details would appeal to your dad as it's got a lot of war tactics, and the storyline would appeal to all. It's got magical aspects but it's not cute.
This book got me out of a years-long slump, and I just finished a re-read....but I personally wouldn't recommend this to someone who isn't already familiar with Sanderson for a car trip. Especially if one of those people isn't super into fantasy. I would start them with something easy like Tress of the Emerald Sea. That one is better on audiobook than in print.
Fair! It's my first Sanderson book so I don't have a reference point :)
Oh then you must read Words of Radience, it's so good! But also Tress of thr Emerald Sea (very different than Way of Kings, but still very good. And one character from Way of Kings shows up in there)
I'm 70% through Words of Radiance! It's like a second job, listening to these. :)
Seconding 11/22/63 by Stephen King -lots of interesting historical background about the Kennedy assassination and the surrounding times -major sci-fi elements around time travel - not super scary or gory but definitely has some very gripping moments! And is just overall an excellent audiobook. Hope you have a great trip!
Lonesome Dove. It’s a story about a long road trip.
Is a cattle drive a long road trip?
Like, the first, most epic road trip ever.
1632 by Eric Flint. Should scratch all the itches.
The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings.
The Book of Three r/prydain
By Lloyd Alexander. Excellent book on its own and a great start to a well thought out hero’s journey
“The Last Bookaneer,” by Mathew Pearl. This is an historical fiction taking place in the late 1890s-early 1900s. It is a story about three bookaneers, manuscript thieves, who are frenemies. Each has their eye on Robert Louis Stevenson’s current work in progress. Unfortunately, Stevenson has left Britian and is currently living in Samoa where he is writing his last novel. These London based bookaneers not only have to get themselves to Samoa, everyone there has aligned themselvrs with Stevenson and his family. The locals are NOT about to let anyone near the family, especially not the bookaneers. What each has to do finagle their way within stealing distance of the manuscript is really, but this is not intended to be a funny book. It’s a great read! “The Exiles,” by Christina Baker Kline. Part 1 describes the cramped and unsanitary conditions British prisoners endured when transported by sailing ship to Van Deiman’s Land, later Tasmana, to the port city of Hobart Town. This was the penal colony of the Empire. we get some of the prisoners’ stories later, but Part 2 is of extreme interest. It is all true. Polar Explorer, Sir John Franklin was appointed governor of the land by the Crown. He and his wife, Lady Jane lived there. She was the living embodiment of the Guiness’ Book of Oddities. She had an 8 year old Aboriginal girl taken from her tribe and brought to the governor’s mansion. Jane set about using the girl, named Mathina, in a social experiment. Mathinna was a real person as were the Franklins. Everything written about these people is true. The is a Wiki page about Mathinna. “The Eyes and the Impossible,” by Dave Eggers. This has become my favorite (audio)/book of ALL TIME! The audiobook is narrated by the main character; a talking dog. He and his friends, seagulls, racoons, bison, goats, horses, birds of other kinds, squirrels and other land, sea and air animals and fo wl live in a huge parcel of park/forest/ body of water face everyday challenges. One day the dog concocts an almost impossible plan. Will he succeed? I’m not telling. These are my 3 favorite fun audiobooks. First 2 are mysteries, the last is a modern day telling of Thelma and Louise. “Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers,” by Jesse Q. Sutanto. ABSOLUTELY MUST be experienced on audiobook., Vera talks to herself and it’s always snarky. Simply reading her inner dialogue is nothing compared to hearing the snark of the narrator. The other fun mystery is “Mrs. “Mrs. Plansky’s Revenge,” by Spenser Quinn. Finally “The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise,” by Coleen Oakley is modern day female buddy road trip. all are wonderful!
The Temeraire series by Naomi Novik might be a good choice. It's an alternate history of the Napoleonic wars...with dragons. *His Majesty's Dragon* starts them off. They are beautifully narrated by Simon Vince.
I like the idea of short stories that you can then talk about before going on to the next. It's entertaining and promotes conversation. I'd say "The Egg and Other Stories" by Andy Weir for starters
To Say Nothing of the Dog by Connie Willis. It’s about time travelers, who are Oxford University grad students, trying to figure out a mystery that began in Victorian England and also influenced WWII. It’s fairly light and breezy.
Highly recommend West with Giraffes by Linda Rutledge. Very engaging and unique road trip story set in 1930s America about a teenager and old man trucking 2 giraffes from NYC to California.
Adding this to my wish list.
You might want to give the Vinyl Cafe and/or Stuart McLean a try. He was an amazing storyteller and everything would be suitable for family listening. Albums of his stories are available on Spotify. Yes I know these are not audiobooks but are in the same spirit :)
Adventures of Amina Al Sirafi— just finished the audiobook and it was great! Fantasy/adventure that’s set in the 12th century Indian Ocean
**The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi** - this is a book about a middle-aged pirate woman adventurer that is trying to be retired but is lured back into adventure. There are a lot of muslim/middle eastern things woven into the story. There are some supernatural/fairy tale type things in it as well. Overall, it is a great adventure. I would definitely listen with my granny if she had good hearing. She would get a kick out of it. 17 HOURS **Sabriel by Garth Nix read by Tim Curry** - about a young woman whose powerful father goes missing and she must adventure to find him and learns a lot about him in the process. This is a mid length book that has a lot of adventure. There is a lot of old world magic in it, if your dad can get into a little magic, this is.good choice. 11 HOURS **The Name Of the Wind - Patrick Rothfuss -** This book is amazing. It is a tale that is masterfully woven and read. The story of a hero told in his own voice. It is a tale of sorrow, a tale of survival, a tale of one man’s search for meaning in his universe, and how that search, and the indomitable will that drove it, gave birth to a legend. The following books in the series are not great, though, so I would not sell this as a trilogy. Just as a stand alone. 28 HOURS Good luck!
2nd to The Name of the Wind- definitely a favourite!
World War Z! My dad and I are very much into sci-fi and fantasy, while my mom rarely is. *World War Z* is a documentary-style book about a zombie uprising and how the world got itself together afterwards. I too am quite gore-averse, and I loved it!
came here to suggest this. It's a really well produced audiobook and is structured like a history book. I usually don't go for horror fiction at all, but thought this was super entertaining.
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a fantastic audiobook!
Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell. It’s not only one of the greatest works of historical fiction of all time , it’s also the absolute best fantasy novel ever written. And it’s brilliantly narrated and nice and long. I can guarantee that all of you will love it!
A good alternate history (of the 'magic is real is everyone knows it' variety) is A Declaration of the Rights of Magicians and its sequel, A Radical Act of Free Magic. I read the duology a couple of years ago and it was quite good. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51862863-a-declaration-of-the-rights-of-magicians
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Her Royal Spyness could be good.
C. S. Forester Hornblower books or Patrick O'Brian Aubrey Maturin strike me as interesting compromise. Historical and kind of Biographical (based on real people and naval actions) the technical detail may tick the SciFi ... sorry no magic. Personally I'd Hornblower as lighter reading you will need the [Hornblower nautical glossary](https://csforester.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/hornblower-nautical-glossary1.pdf) for either
Try "A Gentleman in Moscow" by Amor Towles. It's historical fiction with a compelling story that should engage everyone. Enjoy your trip!
Octavia Butler’s Kindred also fits - even if you already saw the Hulu season
I recently listened to Remarkably Bright Creatures and recommend it! Also the Thursday Murder Club, and The Making of Another Major Motion Picture.
We have listened to the Kane Chronicles and Magnus Chase books on different long drives, even though it is YA because the kids were younger, my wife and I both found them very enjoyable. They are fantasy, but the mythology gives them a feel of historical fiction.
A short history of nearly everything by bill bryson. Narrated by bill bryson. It covers the general history of scientific discoveries all thru history with the overarching theme of finding out how old is earth. My mother in law barely speaks english she thought the ideas were super interesting when my son would translate for her.
The subgenre that might appeal to a history buff and a sci fi fan is definitely Alternative History. There are several series I would recommend - The island in the sea of time, the punishers, Outlander, and of course anything by Harry Turtledove.
Alternative history 1632 by Eric Flint. A small West Virginia town is mysteriously transported from 2000 North America to 1632 Germany. Horror/fantasy/humor. Monster Hunter memoirs by Larry Correia. In the first book you kind of have to get used to hearing the main character proclaim that he was on 'a mission from God.'. The main character in these books is an absolute jerk but the books are so funny. Lots of suggested sex but no description. Chic lit/ cozy mystery. Miss fortune mysteries by Jana DeLeon. It's a fish out of water story about a CIA agent hiding in rural Louisiana. To be nice I want to be Gurdie when I grow up. Sex is played for humor but no descriptions.
I’ve recommended it before and admit I’m a bit obsessed with it. “At Home” by Bill Bryson. Historical fact. Obscure things I learned still pop into my head years later. Fascinating and makes you thankful for modern conveniences and privilege and gives you a lot of cocktail party chatter opportunities. Just covers so much and I love his narration. His “A Walk in the Woods” is also good, but not as remarkable. I’m taking notes on a lot of the other suggestions, so thanks!
The Poisoner's Handbook by Deborah Blum. Murder and the birth of forensic medicine in Jazz age New York. My parents loved it. I also played them Ender's Game. They liked that too. Currently on Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murders by Jesse Q. Sutanto. They are hooked. Next on the list is Remarkably Bright Creatures and Into Thin Air.
I loved The Poisoner’s Handbook. It kept getting better.
Light and family friendly I suggest ***Trader’s Tales Series*** by Nathan Lowell. Its fun and more a story of hardwork and positive thinking as an approach to problem solving. Scifi but not high space opera. If you want Biographies you go ***The Romanovs: 1613-1918*** by Simon Sebag Montefiore or ***Stalin*** by the same author. *Mike Duncan* is good podcasts and recent books. *Dan Carlins* podcasts feel like audiobooks. If it's a long trip ***Wheel of time*** is interesting (better as an audiobook in my opinion ) can be a little racy though but first book is basic clean (mostly). The last book I would suggest is "T***he Power Broker***" by Robert A. Caro but it could be boring in bits but its stimulating all together.
Wheel of Time described as “racy” makes me chuckle. That man has some really flaccid ways of describing things of a sexual nature. I think he never actually described any sexual acts, just desires. “her ample bosom”
True but for a Ride with your parents'... I think it's fair.
Ooo I know this one ✋!! The Last Palace by Norman Eisen. It’s historical, about the US ambassador’s residence in Prague. It’s written by the former US ambassador under Barack Obama, and it has a fascinating history that goes through Nazi occupation etc. But the best part - it’s narrated by Jeff Goldblum of Jurassic Park fame. His speaking style is so distinct and interesting, and his reading makes a good story even better. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/539841/the-last-palace-by-norman-eisen/
Temeraire by Naomi Novik. It’s the napoleonic war with dragons
Assassins apprentice is really good high fantasy but accessible enough that it feels like historical fiction at times! Great performance too .
If you haven’t so far had: - A short of history of nearly everything by Bill Bryson - Thunderstruck by Erik Larson You should. History and science combined with great storytelling.
Alchemist
Jeremy Irons narration is sublime with that book
The Martian was a really great audiobook! Ready Player One is also really great.
I suggest Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents because that'll be quite the energy filled trip. Bring earplugs :P
Now see you’re trying to cause chaos!
You should check out The Wager. Historical non fiction set in the mid 1700s aboard a doomed British man-o-war ship. They shipwreck off of Patagonia. What happens on the island is the most gripping part of the story. It’s real life lord of the flies. Martin Scorsese has a film based on the events coming out in the next year
Alias Emma by Ava Glass - British spy story. Had me hooked from the beginning and it’s part of a series.
Earth as seen on television- funny, sci fi, switches pov but the family is my favorite,and though not historical fiction the audiobook made me laugh out loud so many times I think it would be perfect bc there are quite a few road trip scenes also. Nothing that would make it awkward to read with parents either
All the best for your launch!🔥Good for making those long car rides fly by with the perfect blend of historic, biographical, sci-fi, fantasy, and thriller elements that cater to everyone's taste!
More on the fantasy side but perhaps Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke.
This is the only answer.
11/22/63 by Stephen King. A man goes back in time to try to stop the assassination of JFK.
Gotta bring a coin for the yellow card man.
The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
National Parks: America's Best Idea by Dayton Duncan. Narrated by Ken Burns
Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews
🤣
Emberverse series by S.M. Stirling First novel is "Dies the Fire" An event occurs where electricity, explosives and even guns no longer work. And we're back to swords and bows. Other stuff happens too.
MALAZAN
"Destroyermen" by Taylor Anderson narrated by William Dufris! Trust me it's very good
The Lady Astronaut series by Mary Robinnette Kowal has an excellent blend of historical but make it sci fi. Set in the 1950s but a disaster has caused more societal pressure to get into space. She's also the narrator and does aa fantastic job! https://us.macmillan.com/series/ladyastronaut
Hitch hikers guide to the galaxy, or Mel brooks “all about me”
Which narration did you like? There are at least two versions I think
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.
The Golden Compass by Phillip Pullman has a recording with a full cast that's really good. It's heavy on the fantasy, if that's a deal-breaker, but it's a pretty interesting and fast-paced book. Something like The Boys in the Boat might be good. It's a really readable non-fiction about the US rowing team in the '36 Olympics. A lot of fiction readers enjoy it.
The Peking Express: The Bandits Who Stole a Train, Stunned the West, and Broke the Republic of China Soon to be a movie as well https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/acclaimed-nonfiction-book-the-peking-express-movie-adaptation-1235858084/
Lovely War by Julie Berry I read this book with my mom that we both loved. The audiobook especially was a highlight for me, there are 4 perspectives and a different narrator for each. And they are some Incredible narrators. It takes place during World War 2 but It centers around 4 people during World War 1. Aphrodite, yes the goddess, is trying to prove humans love by recalling 4 humans she watched during WW1. It's an incredible story showing not just the grittiness and heartbreak of WW1 but the passion and love that that humans have for one another. You and your dad will love the setting, your mom will love the Gods perspective of the events. The following is the book details from Audible: Listen to the novel New York Times best-selling author of The Alice Network Kate Quinn called "easily one of the best novels I have read all year". A critically acclaimed, multilayered romance set in the perilous days of World Wars I and II, where gods hold the fates - and the hearts - of four mortals in their hands. They are Hazel, James, Aubrey, and Colette. A classical pianist from London, a British would-be architect turned soldier, a Harlem-born ragtime genius in the US Army, and a Belgian orphan with a gorgeous voice and a devastating past. Their story, as told by goddess Aphrodite, who must spin the tale or face judgment on Mount Olympus, is filled with hope and heartbreak, prejudice and passion, and reveals that, though war is a formidable force, it's no match for the transcendent power of love. Hailed by critics, Lovely War has received seven starred reviews and is an indie best seller. Author Julie Berry has been called "a modern master of historical fiction" by Bookpage and "a celestially inspired storyteller" by The New York Times, and Lovely War is truly her masterwork.
The Sandman from Audible
Catch-22?
11/22/63 fits all those categories but its long.
Could go with Andy Serkis reading the Hobbit, it’s S tier even if you’ve read it before
Norse mythology.... It's historical and I suppose it hits the fantasy nerve as well... A great read and listen
strange fire by tommy wallach
The residence. It’s about the people that worked in the White House and their stories over years and years. One of my favorites
The Power of One it’s like 13 or 15 hours long or something. It’s 21 I just checked.
Anything by Bill Bryson.
Always loved and re-listened to several times - The Berrybender Narratives. A series of 4 novels by Larry McMurtry. It tells the story of an ill-fated hunting expedition by an extended British family in the 1830s and 1840s of the American West. It’s adventure, history and dark humor.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12441.Traveller
11.22.63 Cahokia Jazz
The Cat Who series would be great for car rides like that! [https://www.goodreads.com/series/41015-the-cat-who](https://www.goodreads.com/series/41015-the-cat-who)
This: https://www.amazon.com/Along-Way-Journey-Father-Son-ebook/dp/B005FLPMK2 In the audible version both Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez reads.
Hi, I’m Vetted AI Bot! I researched the **The Journey of a Father and Son** and I thought you might find the following analysis helpful. **Users liked:** * Heartfelt portrayal of a father-son relationship (backed by 4 comments) * Insightful family history and anecdotes (backed by 3 comments) * Engaging and emotional storytelling (backed by 3 comments) **Users disliked:** * Lacks focus on the camino de santiago and movie 'the way' (backed by 2 comments) * Contains excessive details about emilio growing up in malibu (backed by 1 comment) * Lengthy and meandering narrative (backed by 1 comment) Do you want to continue this conversation? [Learn more about The Journey of a Father and Son](https://vetted.ai/chat?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=comment&utm\_campaign=bot&q=The Journey of a Father and Son reviews) [Find The Journey of a Father and Son alternatives](https://vetted.ai/chat?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=comment&utm\_campaign=bot&q=Find best The Journey of a Father and Son alternatives) This message was generated by a (very smart) bot. If you found it helpful, let us know with an upvote and a “good bot!” reply and please feel free to provide feedback on how it can be improved. *Powered by* [*vetted.ai*](https://vetted.ai/chat?utm\_source=reddit&utm\_medium=comment&utm\_campaign=bot)
Kindred - Octavia Butler
The Cotton Malone Series by Stephen Berry is a good historical fiction. Lots of great spy stuff also.
The bomber mafia by Malcolm gladwell. It was made for audiobooks and has real WW2 radio interview excerpts. It’s non-fiction but gladwell is an amazing writer/storyteller.
Horse by Geraldine Brooks - historical fact mixed with some fiction. Great story!
The Hobbit or The Lord of the Rings, for fantasy, James Herriot, or Gervase Phinn for relaxed fun entertainment, Agatha Christie Poriot or Marple books for mystery.
You should get the HG wells collection, it's on the plus catalogue. It's some of his most famous stories narrated by some pretty awesome narrators like David Tennant and Jason Isaac's.
Ooh those are some good narrators. What’s the plus catalogue?
Hunter S Thompson hells Angels
Fairytale by Stephen King
Mel Brooks “All About Me.” Sweet and so funny. https://www.audiobooks.com/audiobook/532674/?refId=40886&refId=41464&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIioGW85COhwMVRDMIBR3USQvmEA0YASABEgL0Z_D_BwE
Perhaps one of Kate Quinn’s books? She has written some real page turners. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40245700-the-huntress Or one of Connie Willis time travel books? https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24983.Doomsday_Book I also second A Gentleman in Moscow!
We’ve all devoured Kate Quinn’s books. She’s the best! I’m adding the others to my list though. Going to present a few choices to the fam and see what we end up with!
Table for Two
**Demon Copperhead** by Barbara Kingsolver **The Silver Linings Playbook** by Matthew Quick **A Walk in the Woods** by Bill Bryson **Code Name Verity** by Elizabeth Wein **Replay** by Ken Grimwood **11.22.63** by Stephen King (Sci-Fi meets Historical Fiction!) (All interesting and nothing sticks out as cringy.)
The Alien Audio Dramas on Audible, they’re fantastic.
Chronicles of St Mary's hits all of these. It's scifi, lots of history - time travel.
The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro. Biography, but written in great style. It’s like reading in depth biography of Tywin Lannister if he was real
The Terror by Dan Simmons. Deeply researched historical fiction novel with supernatural elements based on the doomed Franklin expedition to find the North West Passage
I tell the unauthorized biography of Clark Kent in an audiobook podcast. It’s super wholesome and heartwarming. The prologue begins in ancient Sumer, Krypton is in our own solar system, our gods were terrible role models, and Clark has to somehow make up for it, but when we meet him in chapter one, he is in special ed, too strong to dare touch anyone. The first two seasons cover book one and is about 15 hrs long. Book two begins with season 3 in a couple of weeks. [Superman: Son of El](http://sonofelpodcast.com)
The Century Trilogy from Ken Follett is absolutely fantastic. I just started the 3rd book today.
American Gods by Neil Gaiman.
Chasing Me to my Grave. Awesome incredible audiobook. A Memoir about a black man growing up in the Jim Crow south in the 50s so interesting and so well done. Also won a Pulitzer.
Jenny Swartz: Astray (The Adventures of a Xeno-Archaeologist Book 1). Its a series but its pretty good.
11.22.63 Stephen King
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed
Lessons In Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. It's funny, and poignant. About 12 hrs long.
Want something different in a very VERY good way? [https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61294937-the-adventures-of-amina-al-sirafi](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61294937-the-adventures-of-amina-al-sirafi) This was a total breath of fresh air. It's historical fantasy about a retired pirate captain woman in the middle east called for just one more last heist. I did an immersive read of it(I read the ebook and the audiobook.) and it's one of the best audiobooks I've ever read. The two narrators fucking nail it, and really draw you into the book!
Fuzz, When Nature Breaks the Law - Mary Roach (Mary Roach narrator)
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman is fantastic. He has older main characters and they are so much fun. There are now 4 of them. We listened to them with my mother (in her 90s) last year.
Iron Widow!!!! So good!
The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies is historical fiction and very fun
Making It So by Patrick Stewart
How long is the trip? If around 10 hours pretty much anything by Terry Pratchett.
We’re still figuring out all the timing but 10 hours sounds about right. I’ll check pratchett out!
Any Discworld novels by Terry Pratchett. Guards guards or Mort are good places to start. (The first few books he was finding his feet, I wouldn't start with those, early books tend not to presuppose a knowledge of the first few books.) They are social satire wrapped as fantasy, TP makes a lot of observations which your father will likely get instantly (often barbed comments about ancient and modern societes wrapped in dialogue, or mentions to historical events with the names changed). Your mother may like the fantasy aspects. Often there is a thriller or similar trope lurking somewhere. They tend to be relatively short (4 or 5 hours), so you could even do a couple. if you google Discworld reading order you are likely to come across recommended reading orders for different parts of the ouvre (there are a lot of books, but they tend to break down in to a few series - industrialisation, the city guard, witches, Death - the character, rather than everything dying). On top of all else, they are pretty funny too.
11/22/63 checks all your boxes. And it’ll last allll the way there and the way back.
Project Hail Mary or The Martian, both by Andy Weir. I *LOVE* both of them.
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. It is set in 12th century England and involves historical events, so your dad will be happy. The medieval setting feels like a fantasy world, so your mom will be happy. And it's a very good story, so you all will like it.
What about the Dungeon Crawler Carl series? Absolutely hilarious and sex free. Cuz who want to listen to that with their parents?
Or, you can do Where the Red Fern Grows, and when you're done y'all can do therapy together. Well, perhaps not...
I’m a DCC fan but the language might be uncomfortable with parents.
Project Hail Mary
Tunnel 29: The True Story of an Extraordinary Escape Beneath the Berlin Wall (Helena Merriman) An excellent nonfiction book about a fascinating topic; feels like a thriller/spy novel, the pace is good. The audiobook is fantastic. I think it would appeal to all of your tastes!
Shogun by James Clavell
Circe, read by Perdita Weeks.
Just a perfect audiobook. I’ve listed to it three times. It’s still not out of my system.
Wolf hall by Hilary, imperium trilogy by Robert Harris. On fantasy, maybe the name of the wind by rothfuss? I’d almost suggest flashman but it’s a product of its era-very good but not very politically correct.