On a Black Hills stay-cation? We’ve found that the right audiobook can turn a simple drive into a part of the memory-making itself. Our theory on the magic of an audiobook: families sharing one story instead of six different screens. The trick is picking something short enough to finish between Rapid City and Custer, or Spearfish and Hot Springs (or however you chart your path), but rich enough to keep everyone — young and old — on the edge of their seats. Here are four delightful listens, each clocking in around one to two hours, perfect for a Black Hills stay-cation.
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
A gentle, funny tale of a mall gorilla who dreams of more. It’s heartfelt without being heavy, and parents will appreciate the quiet questions it asks about friendship.
Fortunately, the Milk by Neil Gaiman
Time travel. Pirates. A talking Triceratops. All because Dad went out for milk. It’s absurd in the best way and moves at the hilarious, unpredictable speed of a sugar-fueled squirrel.
The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary
Ralph the mouse discovers a toy motorcycle and promptly upgrades his entire identity. Sweet, mischievous and surprisingly thoughtful.
My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett
An old-school adventure with just enough whimsy to charm modern ears. Brave kids. Wild animals. Clever escapes.
Cue one of these up as you wind past lakes and granite spires. By the time you pull back into the driveway, you won’t just have logged miles. You’ll have shared an entire world as a family.