Podcasts Inspired by (and That Inspired) Books

Last updated: September 18, 2023

Have you ever wondered what classic tales like Treasure Island would be like if set in modern times? Or how R.L. Stine's goosebump-worthy stories could possibly offer up more bizarre spooks and suspense? Maybe your kids have become attached to a character in a book and want to dive deeper into their story. Well, then, this list of book-inspired podcasts is just the ticket you need.

Perfect for literature lovers, this fun list of podcasts features some of kids' (and adults') favorite characters, authors, and stories they know and love. But these aren't just cut-and-paste audio versions of books—they're immersive reimaginings, epic expansions, and unique new journeys inspired by many of the titles you'll find on the shelves of your local library or in our very own book reviews.

Don't be fooled, not all of these podcasts started off as books. Make sure you check out the reviews for each to see which of these titles started off as podcasts that eventually inspired books. And if you like this list, make sure to check out Best Podcasts for Kids Who Love Reading.

Filter by:
Sort by:
Pinkalicious & Peterrific Podcast written in cursive with pink background and PBS kids sticker in the corner
PODCAST

Pinkalicious & Peterrific

age 3+

Fictional sister and brother are bubbly, positive, grateful.

Entertainment PBS Kids , GBH Kids (Average run time: 15 minutes)
The image of the classic Dr.Seuss character the Cat in the Hat smiles at the fish, who is above a fishbowl and above a microphone.
PODCAST

The Cat in the Hat Cast

age 5+

Based on Dr. Seuss classic, full of rhymes, songs & sounds.

Kids & Family Wondery (Average run time: 25 minutes)
Afro Hair Kids
PODCAST

Afro Hair Kids Story Time & Positive Affirmations

age 6+

Empowering stories and affirmations for Black children.

Storytelling Independent (Average run time: 7 minutes)
Hank the Cowdog podcast poster: a smiling cartoon dog smiles in front of blue sky with clouds, with name McConaughey at the top
PODCAST

Hank the Cowdog

age 6+

Star-studded audio adventure about a Texas ranch dog.

Entertainment Qcode , HTC productions (Average run time: 24 minutes)
An illustration with ceramic jars over flowing with jewels on either side of a golden lamp. Above a colorful parrot flies in front of an ogee window through which a starry sky can be seen.
PODCAST

The Arabian Nights

age 6+

Engaging reimagining of Middle Eastern folktales for kids.

Kids & Family Spotify , Neon Hum Media (Average run time: 20 minutes)
Cuentos de Buenas Noches para Niñas Rebeldes Poster Image
PODCAST

Cuentos de Buenas Noches para Niñas Rebeldes

age 7+

Spanish podcast showcasing diverse, accomplished women.

Kids & Family Adonde Media , Rebel Girls (Average run time: 14 minutes)
Rebel Girls poster
PODCAST

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls

age 7+

Inspiring tales of diverse women who persevered.

History Rebel Girls (Average run time: 17 minutes)
R.L. Stine's Story Club
PODCAST

R.L. Stine's Story Club

age 7+

Bite-sized spooky stories with humor and scares.

Storytelling GoKidGo (Average run time: 15 minutes)
A Kids Book About: The Podcast Poster
PODCAST

A Kids Book About: The Podcast

age 8+

Important relevant topics tackled, some difficult content.

Social Emotional Learning A Kids Company About (Average run time: 18 minutes)
A woman in green silhouette clings to a plant as she falls down toward a three headed dog, also in silhouette. From above, a hand reaches down toward the woman. Yellow text reads "Live from Mount Olympus."
PODCAST

Live from Mount Olympus

age 8+

Humorous and more diverse retelling of Greek Myths.

Adventure TRAX from PRX , Onassis Foundation (Average run time: 19 minutes)
The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel Podcast Cover
PODCAST

The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel

age 8+

Mystery series offers adventure and learning; light peril.

Mystery Gen-Z Media (Average run time: 17 minutes)
Treasure Island 2020
PODCAST

Treasure Island 2020

age 8+

Modern retelling of classic novel; some peril and swordplay.

Storytelling Gen-Z Media , BYU Radio (Average run time: 30 minutes)
The Jungle Book: The Mowgli Stories Podcast logo
PODCAST

The Jungle Book: The Mowgli Stories

age 9+

Classic story retold with vivid sound effects; some violence

Storytelling Audible Original Podcast (Average run time: 20 minutes)
Lore Image
PODCAST

Lore

age 14+

Spooky historical podcast with violence and gore.

Storytelling Aaron Mahnke and Grim & Mild (Average run time: 30 minutes)
Common Sense Media

About the Author

Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media offers the largest, most trusted library of independent age-based ratings and reviews. Our timely parenting advice supports families as they navigate the challenges and possibilities of raising kids in the digital age.